Greece announces new unit for special crimes in Crete and stricter penalties for celebratory gunfire
During a visit to Rethymno, Greece’s Minister for Citizen Protection, Michalis Chrysochoidis, announced the creation of a new Special Crimes Unit in Crete, tasked with addressing offenses such as livestock theft, agricultural damages, and related crimes. The unit’s cases will be referred to the Organized Crime Division. He also unveiled a stricter legal framework for “balothies” — celebratory gunfire — with penalties of up to two years in prison and heavy fines.
Chrysochoidis further announced the establishment of the Mesaras Police Sub-Directorate, based in Moíres. The new department will be fully staffed and equipped, housed in a building provided by the Municipality of Phaistos, and is expected to be operational by the end of the year.
In addition, the minister confirmed the reinforcement of the TAE (Special Counter-Crime Units) with 40 new officers and modern equipment.
Several new police units will also be formed:
DIAS Motorcycle Unit for urban and peri-urban areas: Ágioi Déka, Moíres, Kaparianá
Traffic Accident Prevention & Control Unit
TAE Mesaras, serving as the operational arm for the above services
Tougher penalties for celebratory gunfire
Regarding amendments to the firearms legislation, Chrysochoidis announced that prosecutors will impose new restrictive conditions to prevent risks arising from disputes or violent incidents.
For indiscriminate gunfire and the use of explosives, penalties will be significantly tightened, including imprisonment of up to two years and fines ranging from €1,000 to €30,000.
Specifically for “balothies,” the minister stressed that business owners also bear responsibility. If a shopkeeper allows celebratory gunfire and fails to report it, they face imprisonment, financial penalties, and administrative sanctions — including the sealing of their establishment and potential loss of their operating license.
Firearms at weddings, baptisms, funerals, and social events
Chrysochoidis reminded the public that carrying or possessing a firearm in public spaces — such as at weddings, baptisms, funerals, or other social gatherings — is already classified as a felony, punishable by up to eight years’ imprisonment.
He announced that the legal definition of public spaces will be expanded, and financial penalties will be introduced for anyone carrying firearms or knives at events, fairs, court buildings, and other public venues.
