Greek authorities have opened a case file against an 84-year-old man accused of illegally constructing a concrete dam in the Axios River, near its mouth at the Thermaic Gulf, in northern Greece.

The structure was reportedly built in previous years to retain water for the irrigation of nearby agricultural land. The case came to light following an investigation by police authorities.

According to the findings, excavation works were carried out every May between 2021 and 2025 at the site where the concrete structures were discovered. The works reportedly involved deepening parts of the riverbed and creating embankments using heavy machinery.

The case was filed by the Environmental Protection Department of the Thessaloniki Police Directorate, with the 84-year-old facing allegations related to violations of environmental protection legislation.

Authorities cite impact on river ecosystem

According to the Hellenic Police, the interventions caused significant environmental effects on both the waters of the Axios River and the Thermaic Gulf.

Authorities said the works affected aquatic organisms, riverside and aquatic vegetation, disrupted the ecological balance, and contributed to the degradation of the area’s ecosystem.

The case file is expected to be submitted to the competent judicial authorities as part of the legal process.