An incident that has sparked strong reactions on the island concerns the arrest of Yiannis Chalikos, officially recognized as a benefactor of Kalymnos.
According to statements circulating locally, there was no legal basis for the police to arrest Yiannis himself. If an arrest was required, it should have concerned the legally responsible representative of the business, who is not Yiannis. It is being argued that the Municipality should immediately request the annulment of the arrest procedure.
The alleged violation relates to a police inspection at Yiannis’ cafe, ANASTASIO, during which an officer reportedly identified an infringement concerning music licensing. It remains unclear whether the inspection was carried out ex officio or following a complaint.
Sources claim that Yiannis, described by supporters as cooperative and respectful, expressed no objection and was willing to pay the administrative fine on the spot. He was then asked to accompany the officer to the police station, without being explicitly informed that this would constitute an arrest. At the station, photographs and fingerprints were reportedly taken, formally completing the arrest procedure.
The incident has prompted public debate regarding the proportionality of the measures taken and the legal handling of administrative violations.
Giorgos Anastasiou Roussos
Former Mayor of Kalymnos
Unpaid Special Advisor of the Municipality of Kalymnos
