Greece reports cocaine and cannabis dominance as drug networks shift on World Drug Day

On 26 June, the United Nations‑designated World Drug Day, Greek authorities highlighted major trends in the country’s drug market. Police Deputy Director Giannis Karidakos said cannabis and cocaine remain the dominant substances, while heroin use is declining. Since October 2024 the police anti‑drug unit has handled 323 cases, made 646 arrests and seized 1.8 tonnes of cocaine, 5.2 tonnes of raw cannabis, 174.5 kg of processed cannabis, 135.2 kg of heroin, plus ecstasy tablets and cannabis resin.

Karidakos noted a “new modus operandi” – increased use of online platforms and parcel shipments – and the “water‑bed effect”, where pressure on one trafficking route pushes activity to another. New psycho‑active threats include synthetic cannabinoids, “pink cocaine” and ketamine.

The National Organization for Prevention and Treatment of Addictions (EOPAE), created in February 2025, now operates 233 facilities nationwide and is expanding. Its president, Athanasios Theocharis, urged a coordinated, human‑centred response covering prevention, early intervention, treatment and social reintegration. Politicians and civil‑society groups also called for collective responsibility to combat addiction and illegal drug trade.