OPKEPE Scam: Millions Laundered Through Betting Companies and Luxury Purchases

A ring operating within OPKEPE (Hellenic Paying Authority of Common Agricultural Policy) allegedly laundered millions of euros through betting companies and luxury purchases, such as Fendi and Gucci. According to the case file, members of the ring illegally collected money through false declarations.

The alleged leader of the organization identified and declared eligible farmland and pastures that had not been declared. Large sums of money were deposited and withdrawn from his accounts. During the period under investigation, €3,495,887.65 was credited from betting companies and €3,117,153.76 was debited to them.

In addition, 203 cash deposits were made at ATMs, totaling €229,930, and 408 cash deposits were made at ATMs, totaling €878,360. The money was used for travel (USA, Istanbul, Dubai), accommodation in luxury resorts (Sani Resort – Halkidiki) and purchases of branded products.

A 36-year-old employee of a Citizen Service Center (KYD) and a 54-year-old accountant were also involved in the core of the organization. The KYD employee processed and submitted EAEs (Single Application Forms) for members of the organization, while the accountant transferred funds to false property owners.

In addition, 11 people appear as owners and lessors of falsely declared properties, while 26 people submitted EAEs with false information in order to illegally collect financial aid.