Police uncover major weapons cache

authorities stand over one of the guns recovered at an apartment building in Artemida. (photo:Eurokinissi) Arrest warrants have been issued for eight individuals related to a major arms cache found in an apartment building in the Artemida (Loutsa) coastal region, east of Athens, it was announced on Wednesday.   Two individuals, a 56-year-old man and a 49-year-old woman, were arrested on felony charges of forming a criminal ring, as well as trade and possession of arms.   According to the indictment, the ring was established in 2004 and its members are allegedly engaged in the smuggling, transport and possession of firearms and military-grade weapons, mostly originating from Germany and the United States, and distributed in Greece.   Based on the available evidence, a large part of the weaponry allegedly arrived by mail from Germany. A 53-year-old lawyer, a well-known member of the local community in the township of Spata, east of Athens, appeared as the recipient. The man in question had served as city councillor (1995-1998 and 1998-2000) and until last December was the president and primary backer of a local football club.   The arms cache was discovered on Monday, with most of the weapons found inside their original boxes. The majority were AK-47s "Kalashnikovs", other military-grade weapons and handguns (MG-42, MP-44). Parts for weapons, ammunition and combat fatigues were also found.   A ballistics investigation is underway to determine if any of the weapons have been used in criminal acts. (AMNA)