Greek Police Bust Major Corruption Ring: Brothels, Gambling, and Fraud Exposed

Greek authorities have cracked down on a large-scale criminal organization with ties to law enforcement. Nineteen individuals, including four police officers, have been arrested and face serious charges.

The Accusations:

• Leading and participating in a criminal organization
• Aggravated fraud against the state (over €120,000)
• Bribery (offering and accepting)
• Money laundering
• Illegal possession of weapons and explosives
• Pimping and illegal gambling operations (against some not yet arrested)

How They Operated:

The organization functioned in two parts:

1. Protection Racket: Offered "cover" to brothels and gambling dens by tipping them off to inspections or preventing them altogether.
2. Financial Fraud: Established fake companies for VAT evasion, generating a massive estimated turnover of €60 million and causing €20 million in state losses.

Key Figures:

• 58-year-old leader ("Kritikos" or "Lefteris") - Oversaw operations with the second-in-command (37-year-old) and the police officer.
• 37-year-old police officer ("Police Officer of the Year" in 2019) - Acted as a key player, liaising directly with the leader and facilitating the brothel/club protection.

The Payments:

• Businesses paid between €800 and €2,500 every 15 days for "protection."
• Payments happened on specific dates in rented offices on Syggrou Avenue.

The Officer's Downfall:

• Despite a seemingly promising career (Police Academy graduate, law degree), she is accused of facilitating brothel/club protection.
• Evidence includes recorded visits to the leader's house, carrying bags after meetings, and discussing a police document.
• Police also recorded a conversation about renovating her kitchen, arranged by the leader.
• Attempts to feign a romantic relationship with the leader to deflect suspicion failed.

The Investigation Continues:

• More arrests, including additional police officers, are expected.
• Authorities are piecing together the full scope of the organization's illegal activities.

This case highlights the potential for corruption within law enforcement and the devastating impact of criminal organizations on public safety and finances. The investigation continues, and further details are likely to emerge.