A 49-year-old man has been arrested by police in South Athens in connection with a series of burglaries and thefts targeting commercial stores across multiple neighborhoods, authorities announced.
According to police, a total of nine break-in cases have been solved so far. The suspect is said to have carried out repeated and bold thefts, including breaking into the same shop twice within a span of two days and committing multiple burglaries within a single day.
The man has been charged with aggravated theft and repeated burglary, both on a professional and habitual basis.
Investigation and Arrest
The arrest followed an investigation into a string of incidents reported at shops in several areas of South Athens. A special police task force was formed to examine the cases, and through intelligence gathering and evidence analysis, officers located the suspect in the area of Agios Dimitrios on 10 June 2026.
Police reported that shortly before his arrest, the man had broken into a local shop in the same area, stealing cash from the register.
Method of Operation
Investigators found that since at least May this year, the suspect primarily operated during nighttime and early morning hours. He approached shops wearing a motorcycle helmet or hood and used burglary tools to force entry, stealing cash and mobile phones.
A key feature of his activity was the frequency of his crimes, with multiple break-ins often carried out in a single day to maximize stolen goods.
He is also believed to have used a motorcycle for transportation, which had previously been reported stolen.
Evidence and Legal Proceedings
During a search of his residence, police discovered burglary tools and clothing believed to have been used during the crimes.
Authorities have so far linked him to nine burglaries in the areas of Alimos, Argyroupoli, Ilioupoli, and Agios Dimitrios. Officials also noted that he had previously been known to law enforcement for similar offenses.
The suspect has been referred to the public prosecutor for further proceedings.
