Athens, June 7 – The internal affairs unit of the Hellenic Police has launched a significant anti-corruption operation across urban planning offices in the Attica region, resulting in the arrest of six individuals. The arrests, made on Friday, followed a months-long investigation into allegations of bribery and illegal permits within the planning departments.
Extensive Raids Across Athens Suburbs
The operation specifically targeted urban planning offices in the northern Athens suburbs of Maroussi, Galatsi, and Kifissia. Officers conducted unannounced raids and inspections at multiple locations, leading to the detention of five civil servants and one private individual. The case file currently names over 30 people, including civil servants, engineers, architects, and businesspeople, indicating a broader network of alleged corruption.
According to investigators, the network operated as a structured criminal organization with a defined hierarchy and clear division of roles. This organization is believed to have been active since at least October 2025, systematically exploiting positions to intervene in planning cases in exchange for illicit payments.
Bribery Scheme Details Emerge
The alleged payments ranged from 1,000 to 30,000 euros per case, with the exact amount depending on the nature and complexity of the violation. So far, authorities have identified 29 instances of bribery. The services allegedly offered by the network included:
- Expedited or irregular building permits
- Legalization of unauthorized constructions
- Reduction of fines
- Favorable handling of pending planning files
Members of the alleged criminal organization reportedly communicated through encrypted applications, using code words to obscure their illicit activities. All cash exchanges were conducted in person at various discrete locations such as cafes, parking lots, and inside cars, to avoid detection.
Evidence Seized and Charges Filed
Searches conducted at the homes, offices, and personal effects of those detained yielded substantial evidence. Authorities recovered 334,895 euros in cash, along with numerous electronic devices including computers, mobile phones, and an external hard drive. Personal organizers, handwritten notes, and a safe deposit box rental agreement were also seized, providing further leads for the ongoing investigation.
The charges against the individuals vary but include serious offenses such as participation in a criminal organization, passive and active bribery, trading in influence, and breach of duty. The Hellenic Police emphasized that the operation remains ongoing, suggesting that further arrests or charges may follow as the investigation progresses.
Wider Implications and Government Response
This corruption sweep comes at a time when Greece is implementing new planning frameworks aimed at sustainable growth. The government recently unveiled an overhaul designed to introduce clear rules for tourism, renewable energy, and industry, while strengthening environmental protections and supporting the country’s energy transition. Such corruption cases highlight the challenges faced in ensuring the integrity of these new frameworks.
The incident also follows other recent corruption scandals in the region, including 21 arrests in a corruption case involving two planning/building offices in December 2024, and a corruption scandal that unfolded in Rhodes’ Urban Planning Authority in March 2025. These recurring issues underscore a persistent problem within urban planning sectors in Greece.
The Hellenic Police’s internal affairs unit stated that their efforts are part of a broader commitment to combating corruption at all levels of public administration. The success of this operation sends a strong message regarding the authorities’ determination to root out illegal practices and restore public trust in government institutions.
Further details are expected to be released as the investigation continues and more information becomes available from the Hellenic Police.
