Greek authorities have launched a large-scale operation targeting a criminal network accused of fraudulently obtaining more than €4.5 million in agricultural subsidies over several years.
The coordinated investigation, carried out by organized crime units, has led to arrests, asset freezes and property seizures across multiple regions. The case is one of the largest subsidy fraud investigations in recent years and has once again highlighted vulnerabilities in the system used to distribute agricultural support payments.
Nationwide Operation
Police raids were conducted in several parts of the country, including Thessaloniki, Athens, Kilkis, Serres and multiple locations on the island of Crete.
According to investigators, the alleged scheme operated from 2019 until the present day and caused significant financial damage to both European Union funds and the Greek state.
How the Scheme Worked
Authorities claim the network was structured with clearly defined roles and relied on the cooperation of accountants, administrators involved in subsidy application procedures and farmers.
Investigators allege that the group identified agricultural plots that had not been declared by their legitimate owners. Using access to subsidy-related maps and data, the suspects allegedly prepared false lease agreements and submitted inaccurate declarations claiming cultivation rights over the land.
These applications were then used to obtain agricultural subsidies funded by both the European Union and national resources.
According to police, part of the proceeds was distributed among members of the network, while other funds were allegedly used to sustain the operation.
Arrests and Asset Seizures
The investigation involves 139 suspects in total. So far, 39 people have been arrested, including two accountants identified by authorities as key figures in the alleged organization.
Police have frozen bank accounts belonging to 18 suspects, containing more than €355,000. Five vehicles have also been seized.
Investigators collected a large volume of evidence during the operation, including lease contracts, bank deposit records, invoices and handwritten notes, which authorities say demonstrate the organized nature of the alleged scheme.
The case includes charges related to participation in a criminal organization, subsidy fraud, false declarations and money laundering.
Next Steps
Those arrested are expected to appear before the European Public Prosecutor’s Office in Athens on Wednesday as the main investigation proceeds. Authorities are expected to provide additional details as the inquiry continues.
