European prosecutors have asked Greece’s parliament to lift the immunity of 11 sitting lawmakers as part of an expanding investigation into alleged fraud involving European Union farm subsidies, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) said on Wednesday.
The probe also includes five former members of parliament, while EPPO has forwarded information to lawmakers regarding the alleged involvement of a former minister and a deputy minister of rural development and food.
The investigation centres on suspected misuse of EU agricultural funds managed by Greece’s payment agency OPEKEPE. Prosecutors allege an organised scheme that diverted subsidies to ineligible beneficiaries or through false claims.
According to EPPO, the alleged fraud network exploited digital systems in 2021 to channel funds intended for legitimate farmers to unauthorised recipients. The case includes allegations of computer fraud, breach of trust and false declarations.
Greek authorities have arrested 15 people on the island of Crete, with investigators estimating that around 1.7 million euros were obtained through fraudulent claims. A total of 42 individuals are reported to be under investigation.
EPPO said the Greek constitution limits its ability to investigate former ministers, requiring parliament’s approval before proceedings can continue.
“This makes it impossible for the EPPO to fully carry out its tasks,” the office said, noting it must split its investigation when it concerns potential criminal liability of government members.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
The case has intensified political pressure on Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ government. Media reports say he is considering a cabinet reshuffle as opposition parties step up criticism.
The main opposition PASOK party said the government could not function if multiple lawmakers face prosecution, while SYRIZA called for the immediate lifting of parliamentary immunity and a transparent investigation.