Police in Athens have carried out nearly 284,000 checks and made 4,432 arrests over the past 16 months as part of “Ariadne,” a security initiative aimed at improving safety across the Greek capital’s public transport network.
According to figures released by the Athens Police Directorate, authorities conducted 283,988 checks between February 19, 2025, and June 30, 2026. During the same period, police officers also made 3,023 detentions.
The results were presented at an event focused on public transport security, where officials highlighted the program’s role in strengthening passenger safety.
Thousands of interventions across the network
Beyond arrests and checks, police officers assisted fare inspectors on more than 11,500 occasions. They also carried out 28,876 interventions involving people with substance dependency issues and 1,938 interventions related to begging on the transport network.
Authorities said these operations form part of a broader strategy to improve security and public confidence in buses, metro services and other forms of public transport.
Government: Safety is a priority
Citizen Protection Minister Michalis Chrisochoidis said around 450 police officers are deployed daily to protect passengers using the public transport system.
He described the Ariadne plan as a response to crime and impunity, saying its goal is to strengthen citizens’ sense of safety. The minister also pointed to increased police patrols in western Athens and western Attica, including specialized police units and newly deployed officers using electric motorcycles.
Deputy Infrastructure and Transport Minister Giorgos Kotsiras said safe public transport is essential for a modern city. He added that the government intends to further strengthen the program while continuing investments in new buses, rail vehicles, additional drivers and improved transport services.
Public concern remains high
Officials also presented the findings of a passenger survey showing that 72% of respondents consider safety to be their biggest concern when using public transport.
Athens Police Chief Athanasios Kambras said police officers are present across the transport network not only to combat crime but also to provide protection and assistance to passengers.
