Customs corruption ring dismantled at Greece–Albania border
Greek authorities have uncovered a widespread corruption network at the Mavromati border crossing with Albania, involving 13 customs officials—including the site’s supervisor—accused of systematic bribery and abuse of power.
The arrests followed a tip-off and a covert investigation by the police’s Internal Affairs Division, which used surveillance techniques to track illegal activity over a period of weeks. The findings reveal a well-organized scheme in which drivers were routinely charged bribes ranging from €5 to €200 to avoid inspections. Buses were commonly charged €10 both entering and exiting the country.
Payments were collected in a locked box and later divided among staff members. Investigators say the supervisor not only failed in his oversight responsibilities but also actively participated in the operation.
“A price list for bribes was widely known among travelers,” said a police spokesperson, “while drivers who refused to pay were often subjected to punitive inspections.”
Between May 15 and June 1, authorities documented 303 collective and 148 individual bribes, generating illegal proceeds exceeding €7,000. In some instances, coercion and threats were used to extract payments.
Searches of the suspects’ homes and offices uncovered €88,102 in cash, foreign currency, gold coins, drugs, two unlicensed firearms, and handwritten records tracking the bribes. The Anti-Money Laundering Authority has been notified, and further investigations are underway.
The arrested officials have appeared before an investigating magistrate, and judicial proceedings are ongoing.
Photo:Avgi
