Authorities bust €1bn cigarette smuggling network
Greek authorities have dismantled a major cigarette smuggling ring blamed for causing an estimated €1 billion in state losses over the past eight years, following a four-month investigation.
The operation was led by the Financial Crimes Investigation Unit under orders from its head, former deputy prosecutor Haralambos Vourliotis.
Investigators uncovered a sophisticated network involved in the production and distribution of contraband cigarettes, with a key processing facility located in Aspropyrgos.
Authorities seized 42 properties tied to the group, including a hotel complex, villas, townhouses and the factory used for illegal cigarette production. In addition, 76 vessels were confiscated — among them three tankers and two commercial ships — along with 26 luxury vehicles, including high-end models from Porsche and Land Rover.
Trucks, trailers, mobile homes and other assets were also taken, while bank accounts and safe deposit boxes linked to the suspects have been frozen.
The case involves 38 individuals and 21 companies, with several suspects already placed in pre-trial detention as authorities continue their investigation.
