Greece responds to concerns from North Macedonia, Serbia on entry-exit checks

Minister of Citizen Protection of Greece Michalis Chrysochoidis announced the reinforcement of the Halkidiki Police Directorate with approximately 200 police officers during a visit to the region.

He was accompanied by the General Police Coordinator of Northern Greece, Lieutenant General Georgios Papadopoulos, the Director of the Organized Crime Unit, Major General Fotis Ntouitsis, and the General Police Director of Thessaloniki, Major General Georgios Tzimas, CE Report informs viaMinistry of Citizen Protectionof Greece's official website.

Following an operational meeting held in Kassandra, Halkidiki, with the participation of senior police officials and commanders of local police services, the minister said the goal is to further strengthen the sense of security for both residents and the millions of visitors expected in Halkidiki during the summer season.

“All services must fully cover their needs around the clock, every day of the week, throughout the entire period of increased tourism in the region,” Chrysochoidis stated.

During the meeting, authorities presented the operational plan for this year’s tourist season, which includes increased police presence from all directorates and traffic police units.

The minister noted that last year’s data demonstrated positive results from police operations and that Halkidiki remained completely safe. “We will continue this effort this year as well,” he said, outlining this year’s priorities for police services.

“Our priority is combating organized crime. I want to send a message to all those who try to operate illegally, act as enforcers, sell drugs or engage in any illegal activity: our services are present and will arrest and bring to justice anyone who does not respect the law,” he stressed.

Chrysochoidis also emphasized that all professionals providing services to citizens must operate within the law and prioritize public safety.

Road safety was identified as another major priority, with increased traffic police presence aimed at further reducing road accidents. The minister also highlighted the importance of community policing, including the prevention of juvenile violence and tackling domestic violence incidents, noting that police services are “well organized and ready to protect every victim.”

Regarding checks at border crossings for citizens from non-Schengen countries, the minister acknowledged complaints and explained that the delays are linked to the implementation of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System.

“I know there are complaints, including from my counterparts in North Macedonia and Serbia. Unfortunately, we must implement European legislation fully. The procedures take time and cannot be bypassed because the European Commission insists on full implementation,” he said.

He added that outdated infrastructure also contributes to delays and noted that new facilities are already being built at the Kipoi border crossing to help ease the problem.

Commenting on the dismantling of a criminal group accused of illegally profiting from OPEKEPE funds, Chrysochoidis praised the work of the Organized Crime Unit, saying it has successfully dismantled multiple criminal organizations.

“The investigation concerns organized criminal groups that illegally obtained funds through coordinated criminal activity, and many of those involved had no connection to the agricultural sector,” he said, adding that investigations will continue.

As part of his visit to Halkidiki, the minister also met with police union representatives.

Photo: Greece’s Ministry of Citizen Protection