Authorities have unraveled an international tobacco smuggling ring tied to contract killings and extortion, with connections stretching from Thessaloniki to Dubai.
Investigations into the 2019 murder of a Greek-Russian man in Thessaloniki led police to the so-called “Russian Pontian” mafia, allegedly responsible for multiple homicides linked to organized crime.
Dozens of suspects appeared before judicial authorities last week as part of an extensive crackdown. Authorities accuse the group of illicit cigarette trade, arson attacks and targeted assassinations. Police surveillance uncovered ties to Balkan-based shell companies and money laundering operations, with millions funneled abroad.
Key figures of the network reportedly fled to Dubai, prompting Greek authorities to push for their extradition. The investigation also revealed that corrupt law enforcement officers may have tipped off gang members about surveillance.
Officials remain focused on dismantling the syndicate’s influence, which extends into the hospitality and construction industries across Greece and the Balkans.