A suspected illegal coral-smuggling operation targeting the Greek seabed has been uncovered off the island of Skopelos, after an investigation by the Special Operations Directorate of Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) identified a large quantity of coral destined for transport to Italy.
Authorities estimate the value of the seized coral at around €800,000.
According to information from the investigation, the incident took place in waters off Skopelos, where a recreational yacht rented by Italian nationals was used to collect coral illegally from the Greek seabed.
During the inspection, authorities discovered diving equipment, tools used for removing coral, and specially designed storage areas for transporting the material.
Investigation linked yacht to suspected shipments
The case was not uncovered through a routine maritime inspection. Instead, AADE’s risk-analysis systems identified suspicious shipments by a transport company used as a front for moving illegal cargo to ports in northern and central Italy.
Investigators said those involved falsely declared the contents of packages in order to avoid detection.
By cross-checking information including vessel movements, routes, payments, and digital data, inspectors linked the yacht to the suspicious shipments.
According to reports, the crew consisted of experienced Italian divers who carried out dives in protected areas belonging to the Natura 2000 network to collect coral.
Cooperation with Italian authorities
Working with Greece’s Coast Guard, AADE’s Special Operations Directorate carried out a targeted inspection, locating both the coral and the equipment used for its illegal extraction.
Authorities have also begun cooperating with Italian counterparts to identify recipients of the illegal cargo and any additional members of the suspected network.
Investigators are continuing efforts to determine whether other collaborators are involved in Greece, while the possibility that the operation is part of an international network active in other countries has not been ruled out.
Protected coral targeted for jewelry production
Red coral is considered highly valuable and is used in the production of jewelry and decorative items. Southern Italy is a major center for coral processing in the Mediterranean, with authorities noting that part of the market is supplied through illegal collections.
Greek authorities stressed that the collection, transport, and sale of protected marine species without authorization are strictly prohibited under international and European law.
