Greek Stockbreeders Charged with Fraud Over EU Agricultural Funds

Greek Stockbreeders Charged with Fraud Over EU Agricultural Funds

Fraudulent Declarations in EU Aid Applications

European prosecutors have charged dozens of Greek stockbreeders with making false declarations to receive financial aid from the European Union. The suspects allegedly submitted fraudulent claims regarding ownership or leasing of pastureland.

Estimated Damage of 2.9 Million Euros

According to the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), the total damage to the EU budget is estimated at 2.9 million euros. Most of the 100 suspects did not reside in the areas they had declared in their applications.

Falsified Ownership and Lease Contracts

The investigation found that the accused provided false declarations of land ownership or presented falsified lease contracts for plots they neither owned nor leased.

Misuse of EU Agricultural Funds

The fraudulent claims targeted funds from the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. These payments were administered by the Greek Payment Authority under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) aid scheme.

Legal Consequences and Upcoming Trials

The cases will be heard in Greek courts in March and May. If convicted, the suspects face penalties of up to five years in prison and a fine.

“Greek Stockbreeders Charged with Fraud Over EU Agricultural Funds”

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