What Led to the Arrest of 37 Individuals in Greece Over EU Farm Subsidy Fraud?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, Greek authorities have arrested 37 individuals linked to a large-scale fraud of the EU's agricultural subsidy system. This operation, executed by the Organized Crime Division, has unveiled a network that siphoned millions from the EU budget. Could this mark a turning point in tackling corruption in agricultural funding?
Key Takeaways
- 37 arrests made in connection with EU subsidy fraud.
- The fraud resulted in a loss of over €19.6 million to the EU.
- Investigation led by the Organised Crime Division and EPPO.
- Most suspects are not tied to the agricultural sector.
- Greece could lose its EU subsidies if issues aren't resolved.
Athens, Oct 23 (NationPress) The police in Greece have apprehended 37 individuals during a sweeping operation aimed at dismantling a criminal organization accused of defrauding the European Union's (EU) agricultural subsidy framework, as revealed by authorities.
On Wednesday, the Hellenic Police reported that the operation was led by the Organised Crime Division across regions including Thessaloniki, Pella, Ioannina, Attica, and Crete.
These suspects purportedly secured EU farm subsidies through fraudulent claims submitted to OPEKEPE, the public entity tasked with overseeing and distributing agricultural aid funded by the EU's Common Agricultural Policy, according to a report by Xinhua news agency.
The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) noted that during the initial probe, 324 individuals were identified as subsidy beneficiaries, leading to an estimated loss of over €19.6 million to the EU budget.
Out of these, 42 individuals are believed to be directly involved in this case and are considered active members of the criminal syndicate, according to the EPPO.
Investigators have indicated that the organization illegally acquired between €5 million (approximately $5.8 million) and €10 million from more than €20 million in total subsidies.
It appears that most of the suspects lack connection to the agricultural sector, with the core group estimated to consist of around 10 individuals, as reported by Greek national broadcaster ERT.
This operation was executed in collaboration with the European Public Prosecutor's Office, which has been investigating the matter for about 18 months, the report highlighted. (1 euro = 1.16 US dollar)
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, facing scrutiny due to his family's political connections in Crete, has pledged to imprison those responsible and recover the diverted funds.
He asserted that the fraudulent activities commenced in 2016, predating his administration which began in 2019, and cautioned that Greece's EU subsidies could be jeopardized if the issue remains unresolved.
"Regardless of the political repercussions, I will not back down," Mitsotakis stated during an interview with Skai radio.
Government Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the imperative to protect public resources from embezzlement for individual gain.
In light of the scandal, several Ministers and Deputy Ministers have stepped down due to their alleged involvement.
The EU has already imposed a fine of €400 million on Athens after uncovering evidence of systemic issues in managing farm subsidies from 2016 to 2023.
Additionally, Greece risks forfeiting its EU farm subsidies unless it presents an improved action plan to prevent the misappropriation of funds.
The deadline for this plan was initially set for October 2, but it has now been extended to November 4.
Point of View
This incident highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring accountability within public funding systems. The government's proactive measures signal a commitment to restoring trust in agricultural subsidies, but the ramifications of this scandal may linger, affecting Greece's relationship with the EU if not addressed effectively.
NationPress
07/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people were arrested in the EU subsidy fraud case?
Greek police arrested 37 individuals linked to the fraud.
What was the estimated cost to the EU budget from this fraud?
The fraud is estimated to have caused a loss of over €19.6 million to the EU budget.
Who conducted the investigation into the fraud?
The investigation was carried out by the Organized Crime Division of the Hellenic Police in collaboration with the European Public Prosecutor's Office.
What consequences does Greece face due to this fraud?
Greece risks losing its EU farm subsidies unless it presents an improved action plan to prevent further corruption.
When did the fraudulent activities reportedly begin?
The fraudulent activities reportedly began in 2016, prior to Prime Minister Mitsotakis's tenure.
