Greek Priest accused of defrauding believers over €1.3 Million

A 68-year-old active Greek priest and his 61-year-old former associate, have been arrested for allegedly defrauding believers of over €1.3 million.

According to police, the two men convinced their victims to support the priest's candidacy to become the Metropolitan of Thessaloniki. They did this by falsely claiming that his election was certain and by showing forged letters that appeared to be from religious organisations and government agencies.

The fraud was uncovered after an investigation by the Thessaloniki Organized Crime Squad, which was prompted by complaints from six alleged victims.

In addition to the priest and his former associate, two other people, aged 51 and 34, are also involved in the case. They have been charged with fraud, forgery, and money laundering.

The investigation found that the money was transferred to accounts belonging to the 61-year-old man. It also found that money was transferred to other people, including the two other suspects.

The case has been submitted to the Thessaloniki Prosecutor's Office while the digital evidence will be examined by the relevant department of the Northern Greece Criminal Investigation Division.

(Source: AMNA)