Crete: Police operation for fraud involving OPEKEPE subsidies
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A new operation by the Greek Police (EL.AS.) is underway in Crete targeting serious fraud related to subsidies from the OPEKEPE (Payment and Control Agency for Guidance and Guarantee Community Aids). At least 15 people have been arrested.
- 12 Δεκεμβρίου 2025 10:31
The operation, carried out by the Organized Crime Division, began on Friday morning (12/12) and is focused on areas in Crete, mainly in Heraklion and Archanes. It aims to dismantle a criminal organization involved in fraudulent activities that harmed both the financial interests of the EU and the national economy. The suspects obtained subsidies from OPEKEPE through false declarations.
The police operation is still ongoing, with further detentions. In total, 42 people are implicated in the case, with 15 being the main suspects who will be arrested.
Among those arrested are accountants, a lawyer, some farmers, and the main leader of the group, a well-known agricultural unionist from the region who is also the president of an agricultural cooperative.
According to reports, the fraud took place between 2019 and 2025, with the total amount of fraudulent subsidies amounting to 1.7 million euros.
Official announcements from the Greek Police are expected to follow after the operation and investigation are completed.
