Spetses helicopter landing leads to drug arrest on Zogeria beach

A private helicopter caused panic on Zogeria beach in Spetses after landing on the sand near numerous swimmers. The landing, which occurred around 3:00 PM on Saturday, August 22, created a large cloud of sand and dust due to the rotor wash.

Authorities, including the Hellenic Police and Coast Guard, responded to the scene. During the investigation, a black bag was recovered, containing approximately 0.5 grams of cocaine and 5 grams of cannabis. An off-duty police officer reportedly witnessed a passenger throwing a package during the approach.

39-year-old businessman Ilias Sarras, who was identified via an ID card found in the bag, was arrested for drug possession. He has since been released by order of the prosecutor, though a case is being prepared. The two pilots, a German and an Austrian national, were also questioned and released. They claimed the landing was necessary because parked scooters prevented them from using the Spetses helipad.

A foreign woman traveling with Sarras remains missing and is being sought by authorities for questioning. The Piraeus Prosecutor has ordered a full investigation into both the drug possession and the safety protocols regarding the unauthorized beach landing.