Fake Company Ring Busted: Fraud Against Public Sector and EFKA

A ring that defrauded the public sector and EFKA (Unified Social Security Fund) through fake companies has been dismantled. The fraud was uncovered following a complaint about a non-existent souvlaki shop in Koropi.

According to Protothema.gr, the criminal organization had been operating for at least the last eight years, having created a network of 226 companies. Those involved include entrepreneurs, models, and former reality show contestants.

The process involved opening and closing businesses with new tax identification numbers and using straw men as managers. Fake invoices were used to inflate expenses and avoid taxes and contributions.

Three accountants are believed to have been pulling the strings, with members of the organization making over five million euros, while the damage to EFKA and the public sector is estimated at 33 million euros.

In conversations recorded by the police, those involved expressed concern about upcoming audits. One accountant ordered money and watches to be transferred to a safe deposit box.

The 22 people arrested have been charged with felonies, including forming a criminal organization and fraud exceeding 120,000 euros.