No, throwing stars (shuriken) are classified as offensive weapons under Greek law, making their possession, sale, or use illegal without proper authorization. The Hellenic Police and Ministry of Citizen Protection enforce strict controls, aligning with EU-wide restrictions on bladed projectile tools. Violations may result in confiscation, fines, or criminal charges under the 2021 Weapons Act amendments.
Key Regulations for Throwing Stars (Shuriken) in Greece
- Prohibition Status: Shuriken fall under Article 2 of Law 2168/1993 (Weapons Act) as “dangerous instruments,” banning their import, sale, or public possession without a special permit from the Hellenic Police.
- Permit Requirements: Only licensed collectors or martial arts practitioners (e.g., registered ninjutsu dojos) may obtain authorization, subject to background checks and storage compliance (e.g., locked safes).
- Enforcement & Penalties: Unauthorized possession risks immediate confiscation under Police Circular 2023/14, with misdemeanor charges punishable by up to €3,000 fines or 6-month imprisonment. Public use in demonstrations triggers aggravated penalties under Law 4556/2018 (public order statutes).
Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize digital tracking of weaponized items via the Hellenic Police’s ARTEMIS database, integrating EU Firearms Directive (2023/596) to monitor restricted implements. Martial arts federations must now report shuriken inventory annually to the General Secretariat for Sports.