In a significant move, Greece has announced the closure of OPEKEPE, the state agency responsible for distributing EU agricultural subsidies, following a major fraud investigation led by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). The probe uncovered a widespread scheme where individuals falsely claimed subsidies for non-existent or leased pastureland, resulting in an estimated €2.9 million defrauded from the EU budget.
The investigation revealed that between 2017 and 2020, numerous individuals submitted fraudulent applications, including fake ownership declarations and falsified lease contracts. Many of the suspects resided in different regions from the lands they claimed, exploiting gaps in land registries and benefiting from insufficient oversight.
In response to the scandal, the Greek government dismissed OPEKEPE’s president for obstructing the EPPO’s investigation. Despite facing resistance, EPPO officials have pressed forward with legal actions, indicting 100 individuals involved in the fraud scheme. The defendants face potential prison sentences of up to five years and substantial fines.
This development underscores the need for enhanced transparency and accountability in the management of EU agricultural funds. The closure of OPEKEPE and the ongoing legal proceedings signal Greece’s commitment to addressing corruption and restoring integrity to its agricultural subsidy system.
