Arrest of Giannakopoulos in Ioannina: €100 million fraud through 200 companies
The businessman behind the "Choriátiko" bakery chain was arrested in Ioannina while reportedly preparing to leave for Albania. Greek law enforcement is investigating a network of approximately 200 companies and damages exceeding €100 million to the state.
Arrest in Ioannina in connection with €100 million fraud case involving network of 200 companies
Angelos Giannakopoulos, a businessman associated with the "Choriátiko" bakery chain, was arrested in Ioannina whilst, according to Vima, Greek authorities had information that he was preparing to flee to Albania. The estimated damage to the Greek state exceeds €100 million.
Behind the arrest lies not a simple case of tax evasion. Investigators from the Greek FBI are examining a complex mechanism involving approximately 200 companies, with fictitious transactions, VAT non-payment, tax violations and social security contribution arrears. The investigation, according to available information, began approximately nine months ago.
From Dubai to Ioannina
Giannakopoulos had been in Dubai recently when Greek authorities had already made significant progress in their investigation. The arrest operation was complicated by the continuous changes the businessman made to his return air tickets.
He ultimately returned to Greece, however his stay is reported to have been brief. According to information held by authorities, he was preparing for a new departure, this time heading to Albania. His journey was stopped in Ioannina, where he was arrested.
Network of companies and black money
Investigators from the Greek FBI are examining how the network of companies operated: who held actual control of them, who benefited from the disputed transactions, and what route the black money followed. At the same time, authorities are investigating corporate relationships and attempting to identify the natural persons behind the financial movements.
The estimated sum of €100 million, should it be confirmed, entails serious consequences for public revenue and market functioning. The alleged use of such a large number of companies raises additional questions about the duration of the mechanism and the manner in which the transactions reportedly evaded audit controls.
Further arrests expected
The arrest of Giannakopoulos may only be the beginning. According to information from To Vima, dozens of further arrests are expected as the investigation expands to individuals reportedly linked to the corporate network under examination. The attention of authorities is now focused on identifying those who participated, those who knew, and the role of each person involved.
Source: To Vima