Nine suspects referred to prosecutors for extortion using hand grenades in central Athens
Nine people are being referred to prosecutors for attacks involving hand grenades on shops in Athens. An Albanian convicted felon serving a sentence for murder is believed to be the gang leader.
Nine referred to prosecutors for hand-grenade extortion ring in Athens
Nine suspects linked to an extortion ring that allegedly used hand grenades to force shopkeepers in central Athens to pay "protection" money are being referred to prosecutors today, according to Dikastiko.gr.
Five people who were at large were arrested the previous day and are believed to have carried out orders issued from prison. Meanwhile, according to ERT, four other people already held in correctional facilities were taken into custody.
Gang leader a convicted felon from prison
Among the four detainees arrested is the alleged leader of the criminal organisation: an Albanian convicted felon known to authorities who is serving a sentence for murder, attempted homicide and a series of other offences. The other three detainees are a Roma man of Albanian origin held at Malandrino prison, and two Egyptians — one at Malandrino and the other at Aulona prison.
Two attacks, three shops
Police sources report that the arrested individuals are believed to be involved in two separate incidents. On 8 September, hand grenades were thrown at two shops in central Athens, causing material damage. A second attack followed on 5 October, with a hand grenade thrown at the same shop — in this instance the grenade failed to detonate despite eight customers being present in the premises.
Members of the organisation allegedly extorted the owners of the two shops by demanding money for "protection" services. Additionally, authorities are investigating possible involvement in the arson of another shop, as well as extortion against a private individual.
Source: Dikastiko.gr