[REVISION HISTORY]
Greek crackdown on economic fraud and organized crime
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2026-10-26 14:28 UTC → 2026-10-26 18:11 UTC ·
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Greek authorities, led by the Directorate for Combating Organized Crime (DAOE) and the Organized Crime Prosecution Department, have intensified investigations into a massive economic fraud scheme involving the ‘Choriatiko’ bakery chain. Businessman Angelos Giannakopoulos was arrested in the Ioannina region while allegedly attempting to flee to Albania after returning from Dubai. Authorities estimate the tax fraud and unpaid social security contributions to the EFKA fund exceed 100 million euros. The scheme reportedly involved a network of approximately 400 to 500 companies using ‘straw men’—including individuals with zero income, unidentified foreigners, or deceased persons—to act as nominal managers and evade VAT and tax obligations. The network spans over 200 stores across locations such as Attica, Volos, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Zakynthos. Investigators are also examining potential links to human trafficking and prostitution rings. As part of the operation, approximately 50 to 60 individuals, including a key accountant and former GENOP unionist Rizos Rizos, have been detained. By court order, the assets of the accused, including bank accounts and safe deposit boxes, have been frozen. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis emphasized a broader state commitment to dismantling criminal organizations. Official data indicates the DAOE has handled 1,510 cases, leading to charges against nearly 5,500 individuals and the dismantling of 259 criminal organizations. Furthermore, the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) conducted extensive audits and inspections during 2024 and 2025, securing over 5.2 billion euros in taxes and fines. Recent developments clarify that the investigation targets a complex network of approximately 520 companies. Beyond the bakery chain, the probe extends to nightlife venues and hospitality businesses in Athens, Mykonos, and Rhodes. Regarding Giannakopoulos, records indicate a prior criminal history involving an arrest in 2010 related to a human trafficking ring; while he received a primary conviction in 2015, he was later acquitted on appeal.
Versions
- 2026-10-26 18:11 UTC Greek crackdown on economic fraud and organized crime
- 2026-10-26 14:28 UTC Greek crackdown on economic fraud and organized crime
- 2026-10-26 12:01 UTC Greek crackdown on economic fraud and organized crime
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