Thessaloniki prosecutor appeals release of arms trafficking suspects

An appeals prosecutor in Thessaloniki has filed an appeal against a judicial decision to release two suspects—a 36-year-old Turkish national and a 30-year-old Greek national—on restrictive conditions. The suspects were arrested in Sykies on September 12 following an operation by organized crime units.

During the operation, authorities discovered a cache of heavy weaponry, including a sniper rifle with a scope and an Uzi submachine gun, along with magazines and ammunition. A 36-year-old suspect reportedly confessed that the weapons were intended for members of the Turkish criminal organization known as ‘Dalton’.

Investigators are examining whether the weaponry was intended for a contract killing. While the initial court ruling determined there was no immediate risk of flight or recidivism, the prosecutor argues that the nature of the crimes suggests a high probability of further serious offenses if the men remain free. The Thessaloniki Appeals Council will now decide on the appeal within five days.