Greek authorities have arrested a woman accused of orchestrating a large-scale travel scam, targeting dozens of fans hoping to attend the EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi. Posing as a journalist and travel agent, the woman allegedly defrauded individuals and businesses out of more than €120,000 with fake airline tickets and hotel bookings.
Elaborate Scheme and Arrest
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, was arrested Thursday night, May 22, at a central hotel in Athens. It remains unclear whether she was preparing to flee abroad. She was taken to the prosecutor’s office Friday morning, where she faces charges of repeated fraud and money laundering, with the financial damage exceeding €120,000.
Greek police say she had been under investigation for some time, with a growing number of victims coming forward. According to the police spokesperson, the scammer is believed to have been operating since at least May 2024, and more than 50 complaints have already been filed against her. Some estimates now place the total damages at over €160,000.
Fake EuroLeague Travel Packages
At least 30 entrepreneurs reportedly contacted the woman to book travel packages to Abu Dhabi for the EuroLeague Final Four, only to discover the flights and hotel reservations never existed. Victims claim she collected large sums for bookings that were never made, simply pocketing the funds before disappearing.
Among the victims is Mr. Nikos, who shared his experience on Greek television. Initially satisfied with a smaller, legitimate trip organized by the woman, he trusted her to arrange a more elaborate summer vacation for his entire family. “Everything seemed perfect, and we were very impressed by her professionalism,” he said. “That first trip was clearly bait. We ended up losing our summer holiday — and €14,000.”
Wider Pattern of Fraud
Authorities believe this is only the latest chapter in the suspect’s fraudulent operations. She allegedly exploited her reputation and connections, securing clients through personal referrals before vanishing with their money.
Reports suggest she posed as a licensed travel agent, targeting professionals and families alike with offers of luxury trips and conference bookings, none of which materialized.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Warning
As police continue their investigation, more victims are expected to come forward. The Hellenic Police is urging the public to exercise extreme caution when dealing with private travel agents, especially when large sums are involved. “Such transactions should always be accompanied by proper documentation,” warned Dimoglidou.
The case has sparked concern among sports fans and the travel community alike, with authorities emphasizing the importance of verifying the legitimacy of agents and agencies before committing to expensive travel plans — especially to high-profile international events like the EuroLeague Final Four.
