The internal affairs unit of the Hellenic Police launched a sweeping anti-corruption operation across urban planning offices in the Attica region on Friday, arresting six people after a months-long investigation.
The operation targeted planning offices in the northern Athens suburbs of Maroussi, Galatsi and Kifissia, with officers conducting unannounced raids and inspections at multiple sites.
Six people were arrested: five civil servants and one private individual. More than 30 people in total are named in the case file, including civil servants, engineers, architects and businesspeople.
Investigators say the network operated as a structured criminal organization with a defined hierarchy and division of roles, active since at least October 2025. Members allegedly used their positions to intervene in planning cases in exchange for payments ranging from 1,000 to 30,000 euros per case, depending on the nature of the violation. So far, 29 instances of bribery have been identified. The alleged services on offer included expedited or irregular building permits, the legalization of unauthorized constructions, the reduction of fines, and the favorable handling of pending planning files.
Members reportedly communicated through encrypted apps using code words, and conducted all cash exchanges in person at locations such as cafes, parking lots and inside cars.
Searches at the homes, offices and personal effects of those detained yielded 334,895 euros in cash, along with computers, mobile phones, an external hard drive, personal organizers, handwritten notes and a safe deposit box rental agreement.
Charges vary by individual and include participation in a criminal organization, passive and active bribery, trading in influence, and breach of duty.
The operation remains ongoing.
