Greek police launched a large-scale operation Thursday, October 22, to dismantle a criminal organization suspected of tax evasion and failing to pay at least €25 million in value-added tax (VAT).
Investigators believe the group had been operating systematically since 2022, using a network of 100 food-service establishments across Greece as a front for its activities.
The operation is being conducted by the Directorate for Combating Organized Crime, with investigations led by its Economic Crime Subdivision in cooperation with Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
Nine arrests and assets seized
Police have arrested nine members described as the organization’s core group. Searches are taking place simultaneously at dozens of businesses and private residences across the country.
NEWSLETTER TABLE TALK
Never miss a story.
Subscribe now.
The most important news & topics every week in your inbox.
Authorities have seized more than €500,000 in cash, a fleet of luxury vehicles, and jewelry and other valuables worth substantial amounts.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police have not ruled out further arrests as forensic laboratories continue analyzing evidence collected during the searches.
The case centers on large-scale tax evasion and the nonpayment of VAT totaling at least €25 million.