Patras, Greece  - Greek police on Sunday cleared out two slums inhabited by illegal immigrants in Patras, a harbour town known as gateway for illegal entry into Europe, Greek media reports said.

Dozens of people without proper residency permits were caught in the operation, including 44 juveniles. All were to be detained in a facility outside the city for the time being.

Fire broke out in one slum during the police raid, but no injuries were reported, according to fire officials.

Illegal immigrants from Northern Africa and Asia typically gather in Patras in hopes of catching a ferry to Italy, one of the more common ways for illegal immigrants to make their way further into Western Europe. (dpa)