Three arrested in Messinia for extortion, arson, and subsidy fraud

Greek authorities have arrested three men in Gargalianoi, Messinia, following an investigation by the Arson Crimes Division. The suspects include a 52-year-old local official, his 44-year-old brother, and a 66-year-old firefighter. They are charged with extortion, arson, theft, and property damage. The group allegedly demanded payments from local farmers in exchange for access to irrigation water. Producers who refused to pay reportedly faced retaliatory actions, including the burning of olive groves, warehouses, and farmhouses, as well as the theft of agricultural equipment. The case file documents involvement in three forest fires and four agricultural fires. Investigators are also examining potential misappropriation of OPEKEPE agricultural subsidies related to the suspects' actions. The investigation remains ongoing to determine the full extent of the criminal activities.