Greece's 'Ariadne' plan: Nearly 284,000 checks and 4,432 arrests on public transport

Greece's "Ariadne" security plan has significantly impacted public transportation, with nearly 284,000 checks conducted and 4,432 arrests made over a 16-month period. The initiative, launched to bolster citizen safety on public transit, has involved extensive police presence and interventions.

From February 19, 2025, to June 30, 2026, authorities carried out 283,988 checks. Police officers provided assistance to fare inspectors over 11,500 times. The plan also included 28,876 interventions targeting individuals struggling with addiction and 1,938 interventions related to begging.

Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrisochoidis stated that approximately 450 police officers are deployed daily to ensure safety on public transport. He described the "Ariadne" plan as a response to lawlessness and impunity, aiming to increase citizens' sense of security. Increased police patrols, including specialized units like OPKE, DRASI, and DI.AS, have been deployed in West Athens and West Attica, supported by new officers on electric motorcycles patrolling neighborhoods.

Giorgos Kotsiras, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, emphasized that safety on public transport is a fundamental requirement for a modern and functional city. He affirmed the government's commitment to further strengthening the program, alongside efforts to renew bus and train fleets, hire drivers, and improve service quality.

A survey presented by Antonis Kerastaris, CEO of OASA (Athens Urban Transport Organization), revealed that safety is the primary concern for 72% of citizens when using public transport. Athanasios Kampas, General Regional Police Director of Attica, noted that the Hellenic Police's role extends beyond enforcing regulations to protecting and supporting passengers.

“

Η ασφάλεια στις δημόσιες συγκοινωνίες βασική προϋπόθεση για μία σύγχρονη και λειτουργική πόλη.