Philippos Kambouris arrested in multi-million euro fraud investigation

Philippos Kambouris, a journalist and leader of the LAOS party, has been arrested alongside his wife, Anna Synouli, as part of an investigation into a suspected criminal organization. The group is accused of defrauding the Greek State and the EFKA social security fund of over 5 million euros through the use of approximately 25 shell companies, including advertising agencies, restaurants, and nightlife venues.

Authorities are examining evidence of large-scale tax evasion and money laundering. Investigations include intercepted communications and testimonies from over ten well-known singers who claim they negotiated performance contracts directly with Kambouris rather than the official company owners. Additionally, former employees have reported discrepancies between their actual wages and the income declared to tax authorities, which resulted in the loss of social benefits.

During police custody, Kambouris reportedly experienced a medical emergency, claiming he was suffering a stroke after feeling numbness in his limbs and dizziness. He was transferred to Gennimatas Hospital for observation. Kambouris and his co-defendants face multiple charges, including leading a criminal organization, repeated fraud, and money laundering. He is scheduled to appear before an investigating magistrate on Sunday, October 11.