European Prosecutor Laura Kovesi held a detailed press conference for Greek journalists in the customs area of Piraeus, focusing on a major ongoing investigation into economic crime.
Kovesi highlighted the “Calypso investigation,” which addresses VAT and customs fraud that has significant economic implications and involves multiple countries.
In a clear message to criminal organizations that traffic goods from China through Piraeus and other key European ports, she stated, “you will no longer have safe havens.” She reiterated the grave nature of economic crime, noting its links to poverty and asserting that “corruption is a global issue; no country is free from it.”
During the interview, Kovesi responded to numerous inquiries regarding ongoing investigations related to OPEKEPE, contract 717 for the Tempi, Article 86, and the case concerning allegedly overpriced recycling facilities, for which an investigation has been initiated.
The Prosecutor described her recent meetings with government ministers and agency leaders as highly productive, expressing satisfaction with their collaboration. Specifically, she praised Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis for his prompt understanding of the issues discussed and also commended Justice Minister George Floridis and Citizen Protection Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis. Kovesi expressed optimism about the implementation of agreed actions.
In her opening remarks, Kovesi welcomed the renewed political will to amend the law on ministerial responsibility (Article 86), stating, “The sooner, the better.”
Addressing questions about Article 86, she noted that it contradicts European law and has hindered the OPEKEPE investigations and contract 717 for the trains. “To prevent future occurrences, constitutional amendments are necessary. After my discussions with the Justice Minister, we learned of the intention to proceed with these changes.”
On the OPEKEPE investigation, Kovesi remarked that “for years, money has been stolen,” and referred to OPEKEPE as emblematic of corruption, nepotism, and clientelism: “It is time to clean the Augean stables,” she stated, acknowledging the efforts of national prosecutors.
Additionally, Kovesi shared that she received a heartfelt letter from a female farmer who cannot access her rightful funds because she refuses to engage in bribery and corruption.
She addressed inquiries about the Tempi incident and contract 717, mentioning that there isn’t sufficient evidence to initiate an investigation into smuggling or any related economic crimes within the European Prosecutor’s Office’s jurisdiction.
When asked about receiving threats due to her work, Kovesi responded, “I have received many threats, but I do not discuss them publicly.”
The Prosecutor encouraged anyone wishing to report economic crimes to reach out to EPPO, stating, “We examine all reports.” (2/10/25)
Leave a Reply