A 37-year-old Palestinian man arrested on suspicion of involvement with Hamas was transferred to the headquarters of the Athens Police Directorate (GADA) at 7:30 a.m. on Monday, May 8. His arrest followed a joint operation by Greece’s Counterterrorism Service and the National Intelligence Service (EYP), based on intelligence indicating alleged connections to individuals who had recently come under investigation by authorities in another European country in terrorism-related cases.

The suspect, who had been living and working in Crete, faces serious charges including membership in Hamas, receiving training on behalf of the organization, and traveling for its purposes. Investigators are also examining evidence suggesting he received training in the manufacture of improvised explosive materials. According to the inquiry, he is alleged to have placed an online order for explosive-related substances.

Authorities carried out extensive searches at an apartment he reportedly used in Athens’ central Amerikis Square, as well as at residences in Crete. The operation resulted in the seizure of a range of digital and laboratory-related items, including mobile phones, a laptop computer, data storage devices, bank cards, and specialized equipment such as a precision analytical scale and a magnetic stirrer with a heated plate. All confiscated materials have been sent to forensic laboratories for detailed examination.

Counterterrorism investigators are continuing their efforts to determine the full extent of the suspect’s contacts and whether additional individuals may have been involved. After appearing before the competent prosecutorial authority in Crete on Sunday, the accused was transferred to Athens and is expected to be brought before the courts in the coming days.