Lasithi police dismantle organized livestock theft ring

Greek authorities have dismantled an organized criminal group responsible for systematic livestock thefts in the Lasithi region. Following a multi-month investigation by the Crete Organized Crime Unit, five men aged 22 to 50 were arrested, with five others facing charges.

The group, which has reportedly been active since at least 2019, targeted farms and flocks by scouting locations, monitoring security measures, and planning specific entry and escape routes. Investigators have solved seven livestock thefts involving more than 320 sheep, as well as three thefts of sheep bells. During searches of homes, farms, and vehicles, police seized 692 sheep bells, five sheep, two hunting weapons, shepherd's sticks, and a truck used for transporting animals.

In addition to the thefts, authorities are investigating potential agricultural subsidy fraud. Discrepancies in official declarations between 2019 and 2025 suggest that some individuals may have reported more animals than they actually owned, potentially resulting in the illegal collection of €99,312.72 in community subsidies.