Greek authorities have successfully dismantled a criminal gang accused of smuggling around 240,000 illegal cigarette packs since March of the previous year. This operation, conducted by the Northern Greece Organized Crime Division, led to significant revenue losses for the Greek government, estimated at approximately €1 million in evaded duties and taxes. The operation highlights the ongoing issues of organized crime in the region, specifically targeting the tobacco trade, which has wide-ranging implications for public health and legal revenue collection.

Two men, aged 41 and 52, were arrested during a coordinated police operation that took place yesterday morning. The operation involved several law enforcement units, including the Office for the Suppression of Illegal Trafficking and Trade, as well as the Prevention and Mediation Team and the Special Anti-Terrorism Unit. The arrests followed an extensive investigation that utilized collected intelligence to uncover the structure and operational methods of the criminal organization.

Evidence collected during the investigation revealed that the younger suspect was responsible for storing the smuggled tobacco products in two houses used as 'stash' locations in Aspropyrgos, a district known for such illicit activities. This case serves as a reminder of the continual efforts by Greek law enforcement to combat organized crime and protect the integrity of the national economy, particularly against illegal enterprises that threaten public safety and tax revenues.