A disturbing incident has shaken the city of Xanthi, northeastern Greece, where an off-duty police officer allegedly abducted, assaulted and abandoned a 40-year-old man after handcuffing him and forcing him into the trunk of his car. The incident was reported in the early hours of Sunday, September 28
According to reports from xanthinews, the officer, acting without any authority, drove the victim to a remote field, where he brutally beat him before leaving him behind. The policeman later claimed during his arrest that he mistook the man for an “illegal migrant.”
The victim, a 40-year-old ethnic Greek living in Germany who had returned to Xanthi to visit his parents, reportedly suffers from serious health issues that make communication with him difficult.
Police Statement: Officer Arrested
The Hellenic Police (ELAS) confirmed the arrest of the officer, announcing he will face charges of misconduct, unlawful detention and bodily harm.
“On Saturday, September 27, 2025, a police officer serving in Xanthi was arrested following a private citizen’s complaint regarding incidents that allegedly occurred earlier the same day. Preliminary investigation confirmed his involvement,” the statement read.
ELAS added that in addition to criminal prosecution, disciplinary proceedings have also been launched against the officer.
“The Hellenic Police demonstrates zero tolerance for behavior inconsistent with its mission and role, immediately activating all necessary legal and disciplinary procedures. The goal remains the safeguarding of legality, the strengthening of transparency and the consolidation of public trust in the institution,” the announcement concluded.
The officer is expected to be brought before the prosecutor in the coming hours.
