Greek Subsidy Scandal Unveiled: Farmers and Officials Under Scrutiny

Greek authorities have arrested dozens of people in connection with a large-scale fraud involving faked land and livestock ownership to secure EU agricultural subsidies. The investigation, initiated by European prosecutors, has implicated farmers, state officials, and private sector employees, leading to a broader governmental probe.

Greek law enforcement officials have apprehended numerous individuals nationwide as they probe a major scandal involving counterfeit land and livestock claims used to obtain European Union agricultural subsidies. The allegations have sparked a sweeping investigation spearheaded by European prosecutors, revealing a fraudulent scheme involving state officials and farmers since 2019.

The unfolding case has sent shockwaves through Greece, triggering a parliamentary inquiry into OPEKEPE, the agency responsible for distributing around 2.5 billion euros annually in farm aid. Among the 37 individuals detained are private sector employees, adding a layer of complexity to the probe, police reported on Wednesday.

Initial assessments estimate the fraudulent ring amassed 20 million euros in subsidies between 2018 and 2022. This ongoing investigation, coordinated with the European Public Prosecutor's Office, aims to unravel the extent of deception against the EU's financial interests, with Greek police conducting additional inquiries.

(With inputs from agencies.)