Organized crime in Greece increasingly uses technology; half of theft gangs linked to Roma communities

Organized crime in Greece is adapting to the digital age, with criminal groups increasingly using the internet, digital applications, and electronic transactions for their operations. Data from 2024 reveals 510 organized crime groups with 3,469 members, and more than half of these are domestic.

Among foreign groups, Bulgarian and Albanian organizations show the strongest presence, followed by networks from Georgia and Turkey. While theft and burglary remain the most widespread criminal activities, drug trafficking follows in scope and profitability. Significant activity is also recorded in illegal migrant smuggling, electronic and financial fraud, extortion, smuggling, and robberies.

Authorities express particular concern over technology's penetration into organized crime. Criminals now use the internet to identify victims, manage illegal activities, and move money. Electronic fraud, fake transactions, and online traps are steadily increasing as perpetrators exploit the widespread use of digital services. The total illicit earnings for 2024 are estimated at 181 million euros, primarily from drug trafficking, financial and online fraud, and theft.

Official data indicates that 81% of criminal organizations engage in money laundering, attempting to legitimize illegal profits through investments in real estate, businesses, or luxury goods. Authorities note that the appearance of financial comfort and luxury among many gang members reflects organized crime's substantial economic footprint in the country. Specifically concerning theft and burglary, 195 organizations involved in such cases were dismantled in 2024, with 1,264 members and loot exceeding 17 million euros. Notably, 51% of those arrested for these offenses had prior records.