Human trafficking ring dismantled in Crete
Police in Hania, Crete, have busted a human trafficking ring involved in systematic labor exploitation, arresting three suspects – a 48-year-old man already in prison and two women, aged 42 and 51.
Authorities say the group facilitated the illegal entry and employment of at least 39 undocumented migrants, exploiting them for labor in local businesses. Victims were housed in a hotel complex in the Municipality of Kissamos, which the suspects used as a base for their activities.
As part of the operation, police seized 16 foreign passports, €3,200 in cash, 798 counterfeit €100 banknotes, 10 mobile phones, a pistol and nearly 4.7 million Indonesian Rupiah (worth about €250).
The trafficking victims are receiving support from the NGO A21.
The imprisoned ringleader was previously sentenced to 12 years for forgery, fraud and aggravated theft. All suspects face charges including human trafficking, forgery, weapons violations and currency counterfeiting. They are expected to appear before the Hania prosecutor.
Kathimerini
