Anti-fraud operation at Piraeus yields €420 million boost to state revenues

The investigation, known as “Operation Calypso,” remains ongoing, with authorities still assessing the full scale of the alleged tax evasion. Of the 1,750 containers seized, around 1,500 have yet to be inspected.

So far, eight individuals have been arrested, including a Chinese couple and six customs officials, either active or retired. Authorities believe a 60-year-old customs officer acted as a key intermediary in the scheme.

A prosecutor working with the European body has also brought charges against three additional customs officials, including two retirees, for their alleged involvement. The operation centers on the illegal import of goods such as clothing, textiles and electric bicycles.

Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis said the case demonstrates the effectiveness of cooperation between national and European authorities in tackling large-scale tax and customs fraud, following a meeting with European Chief Prosecutor Laura Kovesi.

Authorities said recovered taxes from the operation have contributed to an 11% rise in customs revenues, amounting to an additional €420 million in 2025, despite an overall decline in imports.

Source:Kathimerini