The Greek government has announced the deployment of 500 additional police officers to the Cyclades islands as part of an effort to combat organized crime and improve public safety.
The announcement was made by the Minister for Citizen Protection, Mr. Michalis Chrysochoidis, during his visit to Syros, where he outlined a detailed security plan aimed at both residents and tourists.
Speaking from Syros after a meeting with local officials, including island mayors and members of the Cyclades Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Chrysochoidis emphasized the government’s commitment to making the Cyclades safer.
The initiative comes in response to challenges such as rising crime rates and the need for more effective law enforcement during the busy tourist season.
"Next year, we will be even better, with more specialized personnel and a more effective police force, ensuring safer Cyclades and a safer Greece," Mr. Chrysochoidis declared, noting that the new plan includes measures tailored to address specific problems across the islands.
The initiative focuses on deploying Operational Police Units (OPKE) to tackle crimes such as counterfeit alcohol sales, drug trafficking, extortion, theft, and burglary, which have negatively impacted the islands’ communities and businesses.
Dedicated traffic officers will also focus on addressing road safety issues, including illegal parking and defective rental vehicles, which pose risks to residents and visitors alike.
Additionally, the plan incorporates specialized teams from the Organized Crime Division to support areas with high crime levels, building on the success of previous efforts in hotspots like Mykonos.
Mr. Chrysochoidis expressed confidence in the effectiveness of these targeted operations, which aim to dismantle criminal networks and safeguard the islands’ reputation.
The minister also addressed a reported 65% increase in domestic violence cases in the Cyclades, highlighting the importance of encouraging victims to report abuse.
"This increase is a sign of progress—voices are being heard, and women are stepping forward to report incidents," Mr. Chrysochoidis noted, adding that arrests of abusers have nearly doubled compared to the previous year.
As the government prepares for the next tourist season, the minister stressed the importance of safety in sustaining the Cyclades’ appeal as a global destination. "Our goal is to ensure that every visitor feels protected and welcomed, further enhancing the prosperity of our islands," he concluded.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Governor of Cyclades Mr. Georgios Leontaritis, local mayors, and members of the Cyclades Chamber of Commerce, with several participants joining via teleconference.