OPEKEPE scandal: 108 arrests, 1,188 suspects and six criminal networks dismantled
Greek authorities have dismantled six criminal networks allegedly involved in the illegal collection of agricultural subsidies under the OPEKEPE scandal, with 1,188 people listed as suspects and 108 arrests recorded as investigations continue. A total of 544 case files have also been referred to the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO).
WIDENING INVESTIGATION INTO OPEKEPE SCANDAL
Investigations into alleged fraud involving agricultural subsidy payments in Greece are expanding, with law enforcement agencies intensifying efforts to identify those suspected of illegally obtaining EU-funded agricultural support.
According to information provided to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (AMNA) by sources from the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) and the Financial Police, 24 suspects are currently subject to arrest warrants.
Authorities have also imposed asset-related restrictions on 52 individuals and ordered the freezing of bank accounts linked to 231 tax identification numbers (AFM).
The investigation has so far identified 1,188 suspects and led to 108 arrests, while six criminal networks allegedly involved in the scheme have been dismantled.
544 CASE FILES REFERRED TO EUROPEAN PROSECUTORS
The financial investigation has also advanced significantly. So far, 544 case files have been forwarded to the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO).
A further 405 files have been submitted to the relevant authorities for financial assessments and recovery procedures. Investigations involving 76 tax identification numbers remain ongoing.
In addition, 28 prosecutorial instructions are still being processed as part of the cooperation between Greek authorities and the EPPO to facilitate preliminary investigations.
NEW CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AGRICULTURAL SUBSIDIES
While authorities continue examining alleged irregularities involving subsidy payments from previous years, Greece is also introducing changes to its agricultural support system.
The myAGRO platform, which became operational on 4 August 2026, uses official databases to enable more comprehensive cross-checks of subsidy applications.
The system aims to reduce manual data entry, identify inaccurate or inconsistent information at an earlier stage and strengthen compliance with European Union regulations.
A new monitoring and sanctions framework has also been introduced for organisations responsible for processing applications. Organisations found to be violating the rules may face temporary or permanent exclusion from the system.
Greek authorities say the reforms are intended both to investigate potentially unlawful subsidy payments from previous years and to strengthen safeguards ensuring that European funds reach their legitimate beneficiaries.
