Greek Authorities Dismantle Illegal Refrigerant Trafficking Ring, Four Arrested

Operation in Kastoria Leads to Key Arrests

Greek authorities have announced the successful dismantling of a criminal organization engaged in the illegal importation and trafficking of refrigerants from Albania. A coordinated police operation conducted in Kastoria, northern Greece, on December 16, 2025, resulted in the arrest of four individuals.

Among those apprehended was a 34-year-old foreign national, identified as a leading member of the criminal network. This individual was reportedly involved in two previous offenses in Florina during May, which led to the seizure of 401 cylinders containing over 4.5 tonnes of illegal refrigerant.

Substantial Seizure and Financial Impact

During the recent operation, authorities seized a significant quantity of illicit refrigerants. The haul included 120 cylinders containing a total of 1,335.2 kilograms of refrigerant. The commercial value of the seized goods is estimated to be approximately €58,000.

The trafficking operation was found to be in direct breach of European F-gas regulations, with the organization actively avoiding the payment of corresponding customs duties and taxes. The specific types of refrigerants involved were not disclosed by the Hellenic police, but their illegal nature underscores the ongoing challenge of combating environmental crime.

Broader Context of Illegal Refrigerant Trade

The illegal trade of refrigerants, particularly hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), is a persistent issue within the European Union. As HFCs are powerful greenhouse gases being phased down under EU regulations, their scarcity and rising prices have fueled a black market. Countries like Albania are often identified as source points for these illicit shipments entering the EU, with Greece being a key entry point.

This recent bust highlights the continuous efforts by Greek authorities to combat such environmental crimes, which not only undermine regulatory frameworks but also pose significant environmental risks due to the high global warming potential of many illegally traded refrigerants.