Glyfada police dismantle international car theft ring

Greek authorities have dismantled an international criminal organization operating in Glyfada that utilized a specific “flat tire” method to steal cash from vehicles. During a police operation on Monday, October 12, three individuals were arrested, including two foreign nationals against whom arrest warrants had been issued.

The group engaged in what officials described as “criminal tourism,” moving between countries to commit thefts and burglaries. Their tactic involved monitoring bank customers making large cash withdrawals. The criminals would then puncture a tire on the victim's vehicle, forcing them to pull over. While one member offered deceptive assistance to distract the driver, another would approach the vehicle from the opposite side to steal bags containing the withdrawn funds.

To evade detection, the group used forged documents for travel, vehicle rentals, and short-term accommodations. Investigations have uncovered three completed thefts and two attempted thefts. The suspects face charges including criminal organization, aggravated theft, forgery, damage to property, and false testimony.