Greek OPEKEPE fraud case sees two suspects placed in temporary custody

Greek authorities are prosecuting a criminal organization accused of siphoning illegal EU subsidies through the OPEKEPE scheme between 2019 and 2024. Fourteen people were arrested – thirteen from Kozani and one from Agrinio – and face charges of fraud, money‑laundering and participation in a criminal group, with estimated damages of at least €2.5 million and tax evasion of €2.7 million.

During hearings before the appointed European prosecutor, two defendants – a staff member of the Declarations Reception Centre and a producer – were ordered to remain in temporary detention. Three others were released on condition of a travel ban and a cash guarantee ranging from €5,000 to €15,000. The parents of the alleged gang leader, who were elderly, were also released after posting €10,000 bail each. The remaining suspects continue to give statements, and the presumed leader is expected to appear before the prosecutor later this week.