Israeli Family Held Hostage by Taxi Driver in Athens Demands 600 Euros

On August 13, an Israeli family arriving at Athens' Eleftherios Venizelos Airport became hostages in a taxi driven by a 38-year-old man. The driver allegedly threatened the family, refusing to let them exit the vehicle or retrieve their luggage until they paid him 600 euros. The family complied with the demand before escaping the taxi and contacting the police.

Following the complaint, Greek authorities launched an investigation, analyzing digital evidence and identifying the suspect. The taxi was later found abandoned in Ano Liosia on Katakouzino Street and returned to its company. The driver, accompanied by his lawyer, was arrested on August 25 at the Syntagma police station under a robbery charge and brought before the Athens prosecutor.

Greek police also revealed an additional complaint against the same driver from a Canadian tourist, who accused him of attempting to extort 800 euros. The investigation into both incidents is ongoing.