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Criminal investigations in Greece

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2026-11-02 13:31 UTC → 2026-11-02 18:04 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Greek authorities have dismantled two separate criminal organizations. In the first case, nine individuals aged 18 to 21 were released under restrictive conditions after being accused of participating in a drug trafficking ring. This group allegedly distributed substances within schools and sports facilities, sometimes mixing them with food. The alleged leader of this organization is scheduled for a court appearance. In a separate investigation, police dismantled a ring that allegedly used a non-governmental organization (NGO) named “Paidiki Chara” to defraud donors. The group reportedly solicited funds intended for children with severe illnesses or ~~disabilities, but authorities estimate that only 1.1~~ disabilities. While previous estimates suggested 4 million euros of were collected, newer investigation details indicate the group collected approximately 4 5.8 million euros ~~collected~~ through 92 fundraising campaigns. Authorities report that only about 1 million euros reached the intended ~~families.~~ beneficiaries. Six individuals were arrested, including the 37-year-old founder, Konstantinos Firinidis, his 35-year-old partner, and his brother. One of the arrested individuals is a 35-year-old football referee. The investigation alleges that the stolen ~~funds, estimated at a criminal profit of roughly 2.8 million euros,~~ funds were used to finance luxury lifestyles, including five-star hotels, cruises, designer goods, ~~international travel,~~ and high-end dining. The group reportedly targeted celebrities, athletes, and businesspeople by using emotional social media posts featuring minors. ~~The organization allegedly conducted 92 fundraising campaigns for 74 beneficiaries.~~ A second sub-group allegedly used the proceeds for betting activities and to manipulate football matches. This involved bribing referees and officials to influence outcomes at both amateur and professional ~~levels, including the funding of specific sports clubs.~~ levels. The ~~37-year-old founder, who is also a local football official,~~ group allegedly ~~placed 62 bets on matches involving a team~~ utilized shell companies and betting accounts to ~~which he was connected.~~ launder the stolen donations. During ~~recent~~ raids, authorities seized mobile phones, computers, luxury ~~items,~~ watches, designer bags, and ~~approximately 18,330 euros in~~ cash. The suspects are expected to appear before an investigating magistrate.

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