Greek authorities dismantled a large-scale illegal cigarette production and smuggling network accused of causing €1 billion in losses over eight years. The operation, led by the Hellenic Authority for Combating Money Laundering following a four-month investigation, resulted in the freezing of extensive assets, including 42 properties, a factory used for processing illicit cigarettes, 76 vessels, and dozens of vehicles.
The case involves 38 individuals and 21 companies, with authorities identifying two alleged ringleaders and several accomplices connected to a broader family network. Investigators said the group used shell companies, fake invoices and false certifications to launder proceeds and conceal the scale of its operations.