Security forces bust bogus coronavirus test ring in northern Greece

21 people accused of faking rapid COVID-19 test certifications

Security forces busted a fake coronavirus test ring in northern Greece, media reports said Thursday.

Evidence collected shows a pharmacist in Soufli provided clients, including police officers and military personnel, with certificates showing that they had taken a rapid COVID-19 test. Recipients would then present the result to employers, Greek daily Kathimerini reported.

The case includes at least 21 people, 10 of whom were arrested and confessed to their involvement, the daily noted, adding that police are investigating to determine whether the ring’s action is limited to fake tests or has other implications.

The Greek government has mandated two negative COVID-19 tests every week for those who are unvaccinated to put pressure on them to get the jab. However, only health care workers are obliged to be vaccinated to continue to work in the National Health System.