Greek authorities arrest 13 in drug raid, including Azerbaijani president Aliyev’s cousin

31 December 2024 , 19:15

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Greek authorities arrest 13 in drug raid, including Azerbaijani president Aliyev’s cousin

Greek authorities raided a luxury villa in the Kalyvia region, arresting 13 people during what local media described as a “drug party.” Among the detainees was DJ Mikaela, identified as a cousin of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.

The raid uncovered various narcotics and over €43,000 ($44,803) in cash.

Why it matters

The case has attracted international attention because of Mikaela’s alleged family ties to President Aliyev and her previous involvement in financial crime investigations.

Reports of Greek police officers accepting bribes to provide security for the event have further escalated concerns about corruption and organized crime in the region.

Details

• Acting on a tip, Greek narcotics officers discovered that Mikaela had rented a four-acre villa in Kalyvia to host a large-scale drug party. Invitations were reportedly sent online with strict instructions for attendees to maintain secrecy.
• 13 individuals arrested included:
  • Mikaela, a 44-year-old Azerbaijani national and the alleged event organizer.
  • Nine Greek nationals, including three off-duty police officers, were accused of accepting bribes to provide security.
  • A 37-year-old Greek citizen who rented the villa and was found in possession of cocaine.
• Authorities confiscated various illegal drugs and over €43,000 in cash.
• Greek media reported Mikaela was previously investigated in 2021 for laundering hundreds of millions of pounds with her spouse.

Broader implications

• Corruption allegations: The involvement of Greek police officers in providing security for the event has raised serious concerns about corruption within law enforcement.
• International significance: Mikaela’s connection to Azerbaijani President Aliyev adds a political dimension to the case, potentially influencing perceptions of Azerbaijan’s elite.
• Legal proceedings: The suspects face charges of drug possession, trafficking, and facilitating illegal activities. Prosecutors are also investigating Mikaela’s possible links to organized crime.

Elizabeth Baker