ATM bombing gang dismantled – €440,000 stolen in Killini, Filiatra and Kalavrita
Leader of criminal organisation responsible for nine ATM bombings arrested on Tuesday. Illegal proceeds exceed €440,000.
Arrest of ATM gang leader with proceeds exceeding €440,000
A 32-year-old Greek national of origin from a former Soviet bloc country was arrested last Tuesday as the leader of a criminal organisation that detonated ATMs in provincial areas, according to Newsbeast. The total illegal financial gain of the organisation is estimated by authorities to exceed €440,000.
The arrest was made in execution of an outstanding warrant against him, following a months-long investigation by the Burglary Unit of the Anti-Organised Crime Directorate. The organisation had been active at least since February 2025.
He and unknown accomplices are accused, according to the Hellenic Police, of nine total cases of ATM explosions as well as vehicle thefts. The gang leader's involvement is identified in three specific locations: Killini in Elis, Filiatra and Kleitoria in Kalavrita.
Killini, 1 March 2025: The four members of the organisation attempted an operation at 00:30 on Saturday morning. By cutting the protective covering with an electric grinder and placing an improvised explosive device, they obtained €126,110.
Kleitoria Kalavrita, 7 February 2025: In the early morning hours, the perpetrators broke into an ATM and removed approximately €58,600.
Filiatra, 11 April 2025: An attempted ATM break-in that did not yield results.
The method of operation remained consistent across all attacks. The members of the organisation used vehicles they had stolen from areas of Attica, with which they travelled to provincial areas to select their targets. Using electric cutting grinders, they first gained access to the machine, then placed improvised explosive devices and removed the cash cassettes, departing immediately from the scene.
The perpetrators also carried heavy weapons, which they were prepared to use to ensure their escape. Following an ATM bombing in Argolida, they opened fire against officers of OPKE.
The 32-year-old is characterised by authorities as the leadership member of the organisation, who possessed the experience and technical expertise that he shared with other members, ensuring the achievement of their objectives.
Source: Newsbeast