Alleged illegal subsidy network uncovered by Greek Financial Police
Greek Financial Police announced the exposure of an alleged illegal subsidy network operating through OPEKEPE with an estimated value of about 1.7 million euros. Authorities state that the suspected activity spanned from 2019 to 2025 and involved coordinated efforts to submit false declarations for agricultural subsidies.
The investigation highlights two central figures. Authorities name agricultural unionist Myron Chiletzakis and accountant Giorgos Lambrakis, director of the Heraklion Union of Agricultural Cooperatives, as individuals with key roles. Statements included in the case file describe Chiletzakis as allegedly coordinating the structure by using his influence within the agricultural sector. Lambrakis is also noted for his personal connection to PASOK president Nikos Androulakis, who served as wedding sponsor for Lambrakis and his spouse, lawyer Chrysanthi Koutantou.
Fifteen people have been arrested so far, among them Koutantou. A total of forty two individuals are under investigation according to police sources. Authorities report that the method used allegedly involved submitting names of farmers who were falsely declared as eligible beneficiaries.
Political dimensions and parliamentary reactions
The case quickly expanded into the political arena. During parliamentary discussions, New Democracy rapporteur Makarios Lazaridis referred to the sponsor relationship linking Lambrakis and Androulakis. He cited this connection while responding to comments by PASOK deputy Milena Apostolaki, who had earlier referred to the arrest of Chiletzakis and mentioned ties to the ruling party.
Lazaridis stated in parliament that arrests showed state mechanisms functioning and he noted the presence of Lambrakis among those detained. Apostolaki responded that PASOK would immediately suspend any member found with even minimal involvement. The developments placed additional scrutiny on Androulakis, who days earlier had criticized connections involving the prime minister and other public figures.
Public appearance involving Mitsotakis and Chiletzakis
The wedding connection and internal party consequences
The marriage of Lambrakis and Koutantou, officiated with Androulakis as sponsor, resurfaced as part of the political debate. Reports in the case file mention that the couple had also supported Androulakis in internal party processes. Following the allegations, PASOK announced the suspension of Lambrakis from the party. Documentation shows that Lambrakis had previously been expelled in 2019 for supporting a different political list during professional chamber elections, before later returning.
Wedding connection referenced during the investigation
The role attributed to Chiletzakis
Chiletzakis is publicly known within the agricultural community. He has appeared frequently in media to discuss sector issues and is active in promoting organic agriculture in Crete. He also serves as president of the National Association of Small Agricultural Cooperatives. According to statements compiled by investigators, his position allegedly allowed him to maintain contact with a broad network of producers and cooperative groups. Authorities claim he served as a key coordinator in the suspected operation, guiding how declarations were created and submitted.
Scale of the alleged scheme
Police sources report that fifteen arrests have been executed and forty two individuals are examined for possible involvement. The activity is believed to have been centered in the Archanes area of Heraklion. As part of the ongoing investigation, authorities are reviewing financial flows, submitted documents and approval mechanisms related to the subsidies. The inquiry aims to map the full structure of the alleged operation, determine responsibilities and recover any funds that were unlawfully disbursed.
