The 54-year-old Greek Air Force officer accused of espionage is scheduled to appear before a military prosecutor Tuesday, as authorities continue investigating an alleged spying case involving contacts with a Chinese-linked company.
The officer has already answered questions from Greece’s national intelligence service, claiming he had circulated his résumé to companies while seeking post-retirement employment. He said a Chinese company approached and recruited him through that process.
According to information that has emerged, a Chinese consulting firm first approached the officer in late 2023. The firm was represented by a Chinese national using an American name. In early 2024, the officer traveled to Beijing for several days without informing the Air Force, later saying the trip was for a Chinese language seminar.
While in Beijing, he reportedly met again with the same Chinese contact and a woman of Chinese origin. During those meetings, authorities believe the alleged espionage plan was finalized, including the type of information to be shared and the methods for transmitting it.
Investigators say the Chinese agent later visited Athens to meet the Greek officer and is believed to have had contacts in other European countries, suggesting a broader network.
The alleged payment methods have drawn particular attention. Authorities say the officer received money in cryptocurrency, U.S. dollars and euros. He allegedly withdrew funds from ATMs, sometimes in disguise, in an effort to avoid camera identification and conceal his identity.
The case is now in the hands of military justice authorities, who will determine the next steps as the investigation continues.
