Greece investigates corruption allegations in Tempi crash cleanup

New evidence has emerged regarding the cleanup operations following the 2023 Tempi train tragedy in Greece. An investigation by the Ministry of Finance and judicial authorities is examining allegations of financial misconduct involving the Thessaly Region administration under former Regional Governor Kostas Agorastos.

Reports indicate that a company identified as Tsapatoris Cranes Transport received a direct contract totaling 178,560 euros to perform crane work at the site in Larissa. However, records from the General Commercial Registry (GEMI) suggest the company was not officially established until April 6, 2023, despite performing work between March 2 and March 6, 2023.

The investigation highlights irregular payment rates, including 400 euros per hour for specialized vehicles—nearly four times the standard rate—and 90 euros per hour for specialized personnel. An urgent inquiry into potential criminal activity was ordered by the Deputy Prosecutor of Larisa after the amounts involved exceeded 120,000 euros. Agorastos has been called to provide explanations regarding allegations of complicity in the use of false certifications.