25-member drug and extortion ring dismantled in Athens

A drug and extortion ring with 25 members has been dismantled after a months-long investigation by the Anti-Extortion Unit.

The gang, led by a 44-year-old Albanian nicknamed "Monty" or "Uncle," operated primarily in Athens' southern suburbs, distributing drugs even at schools. The investigation began after an arson attack on a restaurant in Maroussi last November, when assailants torched the premises while two employees were inside.

The suspects set their getaway car ablaze in a second arson attempt in Nea Ionia, targeting a competing business amid a reported rivalry. Authorities connected the gang to an attempted homicide and a June 8 bombing in Peristeri, which caused property damage. The incident was allegedly masterminded by the jailed manager of a well-known trap music artist, already behind bars for a hooliganism case related to the death of an officer.