Greek authorities have arrested two men, aged 42 and 57, in connection with a large-scale forgery operation involving hundreds of fake paintings. The suspects were found in possession of 481 forged artworks, many of which imitated a renowned Greek painter whose genuine pieces are recognized as modern cultural heritage monuments.

The 57-year-old is additionally facing charges for illegal possession of firearms. During a coordinated operation, police, accompanied by judicial officials, conducted searches at the suspects’ residences and other locations. Confiscated items included 481 paintings, two authenticity certificates, four pistols with six magazines, 370 bullets of various calibers, five pistol cases, two mobile phones, a recording device, and a monitor with a memory card.

An expert assessment confirmed that the majority of the recovered paintings were counterfeit. The discovery of forged works mimicking the famous Greek painter highlights the scale and audacity of the operation, raising concerns over art fraud and its impact on national cultural heritage.

Police continue their investigation to determine the full extent of the network and any additional parties involved.