A week after the deadly shootout between two rival families in Vorizia village on the island of Crete, the Greek government announced a series to measures to tackle the gun violence and lawlessness on the island in the South of the country.
“Bullies and local mafias will not take command,” Citizen Protection Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis warned right away at he begin of his press briefing in Heraklio on Friday.
Authorities could “no longer put up with extreme delinquent behavior, provocative disregard for collective effort, and antisocial conduct, at a time when the majority is trying to heal wounds and find a safe path forward,” he added.
“Criminal groups that loot whatever they come across, bullies who think they are above the law and society, and rats in public coffers who steal the fair labor of citizens and their colleagues,” he stressed.
Among the measures he announced that will be valid across the country but – and also- mainly in Crete, the minister said that a unit of the Directorate for Combating Organized Crime (ADOE), also known as “the Greek FBI,” would be permanently stationed on the island and reinforced with additional resources to ensure full operational effectiveness.
The new measures also include a felony penalty for the illegal transport and possession of firearms, with clarification on the types of weapons. Pistols, revolvers, and a range of similar firearms will be specifically listed.
The planned legislation imposes a 10-year prison sentence for recidivists under the weapons law, applying to anyone irrevocably convicted within the past decade.
It also introduces aggravating circumstances, including repeat offenses and the use of weapons in cases such as livestock theft or extortion.
Prosecutors will have the authority, in life-threatening situations or disputes between individuals or groups, to take preventive measures, such as prohibiting communication.
The framework for issuing firearms permits will be re-examined, and all previously granted permits for sport shooting will be reviewed.
He also announced that the Cretan custom of μπαλωθιές, the custom of men firing in the air at weddings, funerals, local feasts and other social events, will be banned as it will the possession and the use of weapons in public spaces will be extended to “social events with large gatherings, including fairs, weddings, and similar occasions.”
Chrysochoidis package of measures did not include any incentives on disarming the “bullies and local mafias”, such as an amnesty for those handing out their firearms to authorities.
PS There have been always laws in Greece, the problem is their implementation. The new law that will come to Parliament for voting in due time practically provides :Keep your arms but do not shoot at each other.” Another typical Greek half-measure.
According to estimations there are a little below half a million illegal firearms on Crete.
