Business owners on Evripidou Street in central Athens say they are facing a difficult situation as they deal with both the impact of prolonged road closures and a wave of burglaries in the area.

Dozens of robberies have reportedly taken place on Evripidou Street and in the surrounding area, leaving shopkeepers frustrated and concerned about the lack of security measures.

The owners told Greek broadcaster MEGA that the absence of police presence, combined with delays in completing road works, has made the area more vulnerable to criminal activity.

Road closure leaves businesses isolated

The street has remained closed for the past 10 months, after the discovery of an archaeological mosaic during construction works. According to shopkeepers, the closure has made access difficult and created conditions that allow thieves to target businesses more easily.

Owners say burglars have broken into shops by damaging shutters and entering from the front of stores.

“At first, we thought the break-ins were happening because the street was inaccessible and still closed,” they said. “But they have also entered businesses in nearby areas around the market. It is a group that moves around without anyone controlling it.”

Calls for more police action

Shopkeepers say they have repeatedly contacted police after burglaries, but claim the response has been limited.

“We have called the police from all the shops. Their response is that ‘we record it and report it,’ but nothing will happen,” they said, describing what they see as the authorities’ approach.

They also criticized the lack of progress from local authorities, including the municipality and regional administration, over the completion of works in such a central commercial area of Athens.