UK Teen Viciously Attacked by Group of Men in Malia, Crete — Parents Issue Urgent Tourist Warning
A British family has issued a warning to holidaymakers after their 18-year-old son was brutally attacked by a group of six men while on holiday in Malia, Crete, in the early hours of Sunday morning (July 13).
The teenager was reportedly walking with a friend around 4am when a car pulled up beside them. Six men jumped out and targeted the teen without provocation, according to a firsthand account posted by his mother.
“They absolutely battered him, breaking his nose,” she said. “His friend ran for help, but it was too late.”
The teen was rushed to hospital, where he underwent a CT scan due to the severity of his injuries. Fortunately, there was no internal damage beyond the broken nose, but the trauma left both the victim and his family shaken.
Repeated Incidents in Malia
In a disturbing twist, hospital staff reportedly told the family this was the third such attack in the same week — allegedly by groups of men arriving from mainland Greece targeting young tourists.
While Malia is known for its party atmosphere and beautiful beaches, concerns are growing over an apparent spike in violent, unprovoked attacks.
“This was completely unprovoked. A very ugly side of an otherwise beautiful island,” the boy’s mother added. “Apparently, the police are aware — but who knows. People need to be aware this is going on.”
Teen Now Recovering at Home
The victim has since returned home to the UK and is recovering, though his mother notes the healing process will take time.
Call for Awareness and Action
The family is urging others heading to Crete — particularly young tourists — to be vigilant when out at night, even if in pairs or small groups.
“Please share to raise awareness,” the mother wrote. “Be careful — he wasn’t on his own, and it still happened.”
Ongoing Safety Concerns
Local authorities have yet to release a public statement on the alleged attacks. The UK Foreign Office currently advises travellers to remain aware of their surroundings in nightlife hotspots, though no specific warning for Malia has been issued at the time of writing.
