Drug network dismantled in Zephyri: 36 arrests across 12 houses
Family groups allegedly directed a drug distribution network operating from at least 12 residences in Zephyri, with 396 recorded transactions.
Drug network with family structure detected in Zephyri
Thirty-six people were arrested in Zephyri following the dismantling of a major drug trafficking ring, which operated through at least 12 residences in the area. According to Newsit.gr, family groups were behind the organisation, with authorities recording 396 transactions in total.
Among those arrested is a 43-year-old woman together with three of her sons, aged 19 and 24, as well as her daughter who was transferred to hospital due to pregnancy. The case also involves an 18-year-old with the nickname "Boubou", a 44-year-old known as "Philio", her 30-year-old sister—who used the aliases "Anna" and "Venetia"—and their 66-year-old mother. Some members of the network are reportedly Roma, though this does not apply to all of the accused.
Investigation began in May
The police investigation was launched in late May, when authorities received information about illegal drug trafficking in Zephyri. Through a lifting of telephone secrecy, officers established that the operation extended across 12 residences, to which dependent individuals arrived daily to purchase drugs. Each house allegedly served a separate group within the ring, operating in a coordinated and complementary manner.
Potential buyers initially contacted members of the network and were then directed to the corresponding residences. Officers identified and arrested 24 people who left the houses and were found to be in possession of drugs.
Fortified houses, hiding places on vacant plots
Members of the ring had taken extensive measures to avoid detection. Most residences had security doors, metal gates, surveillance cameras and railings. Walls and wire fencing surrounded the houses, whilst individuals monitored movements on the street.
Neighbouring open spaces and vacant plots were used to conceal drugs. During searches, officers also found vehicles without registration plates, handwritten notes with names and monetary amounts, an identity bracelet, a gold chain with a pendant in Byzantine style, and a pendant in the shape of a lira.
Seizures
From searches of the 12 residences, the following were seized:
- 95 grammes of heroin
- 20 grammes of cocaine
- 46 grammes of unknown white powder substance
- 47 cartridges
- 18 cameras and four recording systems
- Five precision electronic scales
- One air pistol
- One knuckleduster
- Five mobile phones and handwritten notes
Charges
Cases were brought against the 36 arrested individuals for forming and participating in a criminal organisation, drug trafficking, receiving and disposing of the proceeds of crime, as well as violations of firearms legislation. The accused were brought before the competent prosecutor.
Source: Newsit.gr