Palma di Montechiaro olive oil fraud investigation extended

Investigations into a major olive oil fraud centered in Palma di Montechiaro have been extended until at least November. The inquiry, coordinated by the Agrigento Prosecutor's Office, focuses on an organized group accused of selling seed oil mixed with pigments as extra virgin olive oil.

Authorities are currently analyzing data extracted from mobile phones seized from the suspects. Defense expert Pietro Indorato is scheduled to examine the devices following the initial analysis by the public prosecutor's consultant.

The investigation involves 24 individuals and six companies. Fifteen of the suspects face charges of criminal conspiracy aimed at committing crimes against the economy, public health, and property, as well as money laundering and commercial fraud. Last year, assets totaling nearly 500,000 euros were seized.

Additionally, the six companies are under scrutiny for administrative violations and suspicious financial movements. Prosecutors allege that through fraudulent invoicing and non-existent operations, the group induced the Agency for Agricultural Payments (AGEA) to pay out more than 2.5 million euros in public funds.