Tourist allegedly asked to "buy" small girl at tavern in Agia Pelagia

A seaside tavern in Agia Pelagia, Crete, says a foreign guest asked staff how much it would cost to "buy" a small girl who was sitting outside, prompting police to be called and hotel management notified.

The owners of Taverna Bar Vasilis, located on Mononaftis beach, published a public post describing the episode as "absolutely disgusting" and said they immediately involved the authorities after the man entered from a nearby hotel.

Details from the tavern

In their account the owners wrote: "At one point a man from the nearby hotel came in. After a short conversation he asked how much he would have to pay to 'buy' the little girl who was sitting outside and to do certain things with her." They say they called the police and informed the guest's hotel right away.

The tavern stressed the scene was especially disturbing because only a young employee and the child were present at the time. "We do not know whether further measures were taken afterwards, but this is absolutely disgusting and we will not tolerate it — neither here nor anywhere. If anyone recognizes this man, let us know," the owners wrote.

They added that the man's personal details had already been passed to the competent authorities and that the public post aimed both to warn parents and to urge vigilance. "This is a warning that such situations can happen anywhere and at any time. Talk to your children, teach them how to react and always watch their safety," the owners appealed.

The incident drew strong reactions on social media, where users called for a full investigation by Greek authorities and urged that the case be followed up to ensure the child's protection.

Photo: press material from the event