Greek police have uncovered a large-scale scam involving tampered fuel pumps at gas stations, arresting 13 people accused of systematically defrauding consumers by delivering smaller quantities of fuel than recorded at the pump.

The operation, led by the country’s organized crime unit in cooperation with tax and customs authorities, took place on January 20 and involved coordinated raids across multiple regions. Officers carried out simultaneous searches at 20 gas stations, nine private homes, and company offices linked to the scheme.

Investigators said the criminal group installed illegal software that altered fuel pump measurements and bypassed mandatory monitoring systems. As a result, customers unknowingly received reduced amounts of fuel, while the operators generated significant illicit profits.

Authorities identified a suspected ringleader who allegedly controlled or participated in the management of 20 fuel station companies. According to police, the software had been in use since at least 2021 and allowed station operators to set how much fuel each pump withheld, typically around 10 percent per transaction.

The program was designed to evade detection and was installed on station computers with built-in security features. Technical support was reportedly provided by two members of the group who worked for the company that developed the software. Both company owners were among those arrested.

Those detained face a wide range of charges, including participation in a criminal organization, fraud, falsification of receipts, unfair competition, tax violations, money laundering, and weapons and drug offenses. Five additional suspects have been identified and are being sought by police.

During the raids, authorities seized computer equipment, financial devices, luxury vehicles, firearms, and large sums of cash. Investigators also recovered digital storage devices, mobile phones, and materials linked directly to fuel pump manipulation.

Tax authorities responded by suspending the operating licenses of 16 gas stations for two years and sealing their premises. Financial crime watchdogs have also been notified to further examine the assets and transactions linked to the alleged ringleader and associated companies.

Police estimate that consumer losses from the scheme exceed €25 million over the past five years. All suspects have been referred to prosecutors as the investigation continues.