New generation of criminals
The Hollywood-style break-in at an ATEbank on the island of Crete, in which the thieves blocked roads with stolen trucks and used a bulldozer to smash their way into the building, is yet another sign that domestic crime has entered a new phase. The Greek authorities are having to face unprecedented levels of organization and efficiency. It would not be an exaggeration to claim that crime is constantly evolving, with the authorities struggling to catch up with its new forms. At the same time, the Greek police have many outstanding debts to pay. A few months ago, two convicts escaped from Athens’s high-security prison in Korydallos on board a hijacked helicopter as guards stood by as if paralyzed. Police efforts to track down the fugitives have so far been unsuccessful. Although the police managed to net November 17, the deadliest terrorist group in Greece’s history, the threat from fringe guerrilla groups remains. What is worse, a new generation of terrorists is becoming even more provocative – not hesitating to target a well-guarded former public order minister. We should also remember that the police have not yet solved the killing of the guard who was shot dead outside the home of the British attache in the suburb of Kifissia. Notwithstanding the euphoria following the capture of the November 17 terrorist organization, the police have a Sisyphean battle in consolidating a feeling of security among citizens. Greeks pay a lot of taxes for public safety. It is only natural that they should expect to see results.
