Deadly shooting in Athens allegedly involves Turkish mafia

A violent altercation between two groups of Turkish nationals in Athens resulted in two fatalities and one injury.

The incident took place on the morning of Dec. 9, 2024, at a store in the Greek capital, with police later arresting two suspects, according to the media outlet reported.

Eyewitnesses report over 30 shots fired

According to eyewitnesses, the incident escalated into a violent confrontation, during which over 30 shots were reportedly fired. The suspects fled the scene after the shooting but were later apprehended by the police.

Possible mafia connection under investigation

Police have discovered a weapon and a black jacket near the scene, and speculation is growing that the deadly incident may be related to an ongoing feud within Turkish mafia circles.

In the past, similar confrontations between rival Turkish mafia groups have occurred in Greece.

Mafia wars across Europe 

The mafia landscape in Türkiye and Europe has become increasingly volatile, with factions like Sahinler, Sarallar and Boyun’s Dalton gang vying for power and control. Drug trafficking, weapons smuggling, and revenge killings have plagued not just Türkiye but countries like Italy, France and Greece, where these organizations have expanded their influence. 

Boyun’s arrest in Italy has only added more complexity to this intricate web of mafia alliances and rivalries. The Italian investigation has revealed that Boyun’s influence extends far beyond Turkish borders, with operatives in multiple European countries. Despite his close ties to Sedat Sahin, Boyun’s internal conflict with former allies, like the Dalton gang, has led to a string of killings that have drawn international attention. 

As Greek authorities continue their investigation, one thing is certain: the mafia wars are far from over, and the arrest of Emirhan Karademir may only be the beginning of a larger unraveling. 

The Greek Police (ELAS) have prepared a confidential report on the activities of Turkish crime syndicates in Greece. According to excerpts published in Greek media outlet Kathimerini, members of these organized crime groups have sought asylum by claiming affiliation with terrorist groups like the PKK or Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) after fleeing to Greece.

The report highlights that these individuals often live in central Athens or suburban areas, renting houses through platforms like Airbnb, using luxury vehicles, and sharing images on social media.

It warns that Turkish crime syndicates pose an increasing threat in Greece, with concerns that the country may become a battleground for mafia turf wars.

In recent months, members of the Baygaralar gang were arrested through joint efforts between Turkish and Greek authorities.

Additionally, two gang members were shot in Piraeus in June, and last year, six members of the Daltonlar gang were executed in a car near Athens.

Investigators still unclear on motive

While the investigation is ongoing, the precise motive behind the shooting remains unclear. However, law enforcement agencies are focusing their efforts on determining whether the incident was a part of a broader criminal rivalry.