Parliament approves stricter gun-control amendment
The measure, introduced by Citizen Protection Minister Michalis Chrisochoidis, passed with the backing of New Democracy and PASOK.
Plefsi Eleftherias voted “present,” while SYRIZA, KKE, New Lef, Greek Solution and Niki opposed it.
The amendment, attached to a bill on digital road-safety measures, updates the legal framework on firearms in response to rising concerns over armed violence and organised crime. It follows the recent fatal clash in Vorizia, Heraklion.
Under the new rules, penalties for illegal weapon possession, import or transport increase to prison terms of up to eight years and fines from €20,000 to €100,000.
Reckless gunfire and illegal use of explosives carry a minimum two-year sentence and fines of €2,000–€50,000. Venue owners or event organisers who fail to report such incidents may face up to two years in prison and fines of €1,000–€30,000.
Incitement to acquire or use firearms becomes punishable by up to two years in prison and fines of €1,000–€30,000, rising sharply when minors are targeted or when incitement occurs online. Illegal possession or transport of heavy weaponry will incur fines of €30,000–€150,000.
The government says the stricter measures aim to enhance public safety and deter violent crime.
