The Minister for Citizen Protection, Michalis Chrysochoidis, has announced the rollout of 300 surveillance cameras in Attica under the so-called “Greek FBI” initiative, alongside intensified traffic policing and updated officer remuneration measures.

He stated that within a few days, 300 cameras across the Attica region will begin operating to detect red-light violations. He also noted that traffic police checks have been significantly increased and that the force has been reinforced by more than 600 personnel.

At the same time, he referred to the Traffic Police’s “Kombos” plan, which, he said, will cover areas including Schisto to Lavrio and Varibobi to the port of Piraeus.

“We want to see what we can improve in people’s daily lives, which are difficult,” he said in an interview with SKAI 100.3.

Responding to a listener’s question on why driving licences are also confiscated for riding without a helmet, he said: “That is the correct approach. The helmet issue is separate—everyone must wear one—and it is becoming increasingly clear that 90–95% are wearing helmets. Licence revocation is a different matter: it applies when someone holds a car driving licence but is not authorised to ride a moped. This is an issue that must be addressed.”

On crime, the minister said that more than 2,000 arrests have been made over the past year and a half, and approximately 700 people are currently in pre-trial detention.

Referring specifically to the “Greek FBI,” he said it reflects a long-held vision. “I believe this is something extremely important that Greek society, the economy and the country’s security needed, and we were proven right. We will continue in this direction,” he said.

When asked about differences in police deployment and pay depending on transfers to the provinces, he said that Attica accounts for 70% of crime and policing needs, Thessaloniki for 10%, and the rest of Greece for the remaining share. He added that more than two-thirds of police officers serve in the provinces due to long-standing legal provisions allowing transfers, often for personal and family reasons. He also noted that officers stationed in Athens are now being given opportunities to supplement their income through additional duties, such as during the current tourist season.