Fraudsters from Syria created fictitious clothing companies and "robbed" Greek EFKA for 2 million

Two brothers from Syria arrested on charges of large-scale fraud against EFKA. They created fictitious clothing companies and did not pay dues and taxes. According to investigators, the scam lasted several years and caused damage to the state in excess of 2.1 million euros.

Two Syrians were placed in custody following a decision by an investigating judge accusing them of creating a criminal scheme aimed at deception of the Greek fund EFKA and tax evasion. Four more defendants, including a 55-year-old accountant, were released on bail with restrictive conditions.

According to the case materials, the scam was built through a network fictitious clothing companiesnine of which are involved in the investigation. These companies allegedly carried out legal activities, submitted reports to the EFKA and indicated dozens of employees, but contributions were not paid for them.

According to the prosecutor’s office, the total damage caused to the state is estimated at more than 2.1 million euros. Of these 1.63 million constitute unpaid insurance premiums, and more than 500 thousand euros — unpaid taxes and VAT.

The investigation claims that the brothers managed the scheme personally, distributing roles between dummies. Through “virtual employees,” they provided companies with fictitious reporting and made profits without real activity.

The defendants deny guilt, stating that “all 108 workers were officially employed, contributions and taxes were paid for them.” According to them, debts arose “due to a temporary delay in payments”and not because of fraud.

The prosecutor’s office considers these explanations an attempt to evade responsibility. According to judicial sources, the case could lead to one of the largest cases of fraud against public funds in recent years.

The investigation continues: law enforcement agencies are checking the chain of related companies and possible financial flows abroad.

Source link