Organized crime group dismantled in Crete for extortion and subsidy fraud

The Organized Crime Division of the Hellenic Police conducted a major operation in Crete resulting in the arrest of three individuals, identified as an uncle and his two nephews. The group is accused of systematically seizing agricultural land from local farmers through physical violence, arson, and intimidation. By illegally claiming these lands, the suspects fraudulently collected agricultural subsidies from the Payment and Control Agency for Guidance and Guarantee Community Aid (OPEKEPE). Authorities report that the criminal organization also engaged in extortion and property destruction. In addition to these three arrests, police detained three other individuals on separate charges of livestock theft. The investigation is ongoing as authorities document the extent of the financial fraud against European Union funds. All suspects are currently being processed under active arrest warrants.