A nation-wide police operation resulted in the arrest of seven persons, three Cypriots, three Greeks and a Pakistani national who were involved in an undocumented migrant smuggling ring, that operated through Macedonia Airport in Thessaloniki.

According to a police announcement, the criminal organization’s activity started last October.

Among those arrested are:

– A 48-year-old Greek Cypriot who is considered to be the “brains” of the operation.

– A woman official who was responsible for the verification of air tickets and travel documents (CHECK IN and BOARDING)

– A pilot, who was aware of the ring’s activity and communicated the orders of the organization’s “leader” to the aforementioned official.

– The owner and an employee of a travel agency, who issued tickets for the immigrants, using knowingly data from falsified travel documents.

Police found in the suspects’ possession fake travel documents and passports which the migrants used to travel.

Thessaloniki police will make statements later on Wednesday.