Greek port authorities have arrested a Turkish shipowner operating on the Mytilene–Ayvalık ferry route over an outstanding 2022 arrest warrant linked to the alleged trafficking of more than two tonnes of cocaine.
Officers from the Mytilene Port Authority arrested the Turkish national on Saturday while conducting an inspection of a ferry that had recently resumed service on the Mytilene–Ayvalık route after an extended absence.
Authorities identified the suspect during a check of the vessel’s registered crew list. Although he had remained on board and had not disembarked at the port, officers located and arrested him under the outstanding warrant.
According to Greek authorities, the 2022 warrant relates to alleged involvement in the trafficking of more than two tonnes of cocaine through an organised criminal network reportedly involving Greek, Albanian and Turkish nationals.
The suspect remains in custody at the Mytilene Port Authority. He is scheduled to appear before judicial authorities on Monday, when a court will determine whether he will remain in detention while legal proceedings continue.
The allegations have not yet been tested in court, and the suspect is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.