Authorities in Greece have dismantled a criminal organization involved in migrant smuggling and large-scale document forgery, following coordinated police operations across the Athens region.
The network, which operated a fully equipped forgery laboratory and provided illegal transport services, is estimated to have earned over €1 million from its activities since early 2026.
Coordinated Police Operation
The operation was carried out by specialized police units, with support from European law enforcement, and led to the arrest of four alleged members of the group. The suspects, aged between 35 and 47, face multiple charges, including participation in a criminal organization, document forgery, migrant smuggling for profit, and money laundering.
In addition, seven foreign nationals were detained for illegal stay in the country.
Smuggling Route and Modus Operandi
According to investigators, the group facilitated the illegal entry and movement of migrants lacking valid documentation. Individuals were initially transported by air to countries near Greece, before crossing borders on foot.
Once inside the country, they were transported by bus to Athens, where they were received by members of the network and taken to a so-called “safehouse” used as temporary accommodation.
The organization then provided forged travel documents, including passports and visas, enabling migrants to leave the country by air and continue to other European destinations.
High Profits and Organized Structure
The cost per person ranged between €5,000 and €10,000, covering transportation, accommodation, and the production of fake documents. Authorities estimate that the group had already carried out—or was preparing—at least 203 illegal transfers.
The total financial gain from these operations is believed to exceed €1 million.
Forgery Lab and Seized Evidence
A key element of the investigation was the discovery of a fully operational forgery lab inside an apartment in Athens. The facility was equipped with printers, laminators, computers, laser devices, and stamp-making equipment.
During searches of properties linked to the suspects, police seized:
- 203 forged travel documents
- Passport templates and covers
- Visa stickers and entry-exit stamps
- 106 opened postal packages used for receiving materials
- €1,000 in cash
- 18 mobile phones
A vehicle used in the group’s activities was also confiscated.
