The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights

Five Syrian Human Traffickers Arrested in Greece

Syrians continue to risk their lives to reach Europe

 

ATHENS

 

Greek police arrested five Syrian nationals on Sunday, on charges of smuggling immigrants from Greece to Italy.

The traffickers were arrested when they attempted to smuggle 20 compatriots into Italy from the Greek city of Thessaloniki in a private car, charging the passengers €2,000 – €2,500 each.

Last week Greek authorities arrested two traffickers (a 28 year old and 25 year old) in Thessaloniki, with 20 illegal immigrants who were being transported to Italy. Immediately after their arrest, Greek police conducted a coordinated research in Athens and arrested accomplices.

 

According to the investigation, the accomplices in Athens functioned as guarantors. Once the trafficking was complete, they shared the money between them.

Police found €12,170 and a host of mobile devices used for the operation.

 

The war in Syria has forced Syrians to migrate to Europe at all costs. The Greek government is unable to cope with the thousands arriving on its shores and has called on the European Union to do more to help with the humanitarian crisis.

 

 

BAS NEWS