Mammoth fraud: 2 million euros stolen by posing as accountants and HEDNO employees

A sophisticated criminal organization that preyed on citizens by impersonating officials from the Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator (HEDNO) and accountants has been dismantled by the Directorate for Combating Organized Crime. The extensive police operation in West Attica led to the arrest of ten individuals, including the alleged masterminds, call center operators, and SIM card suppliers.

This criminal enterprise, operating with a structured hierarchy since at least November 2025, managed to illicitly gain over 2 million euros through a series of elaborate scams. The group's modus operandi involved deceiving victims with various pretexts, such as alleged tax arrears or electricity leaks, convincing them to gather money and valuables at specific locations for collection by accomplices.

To evade detection, the perpetrators frequently relocated their call center and changed phone numbers, employing security measures like shutters and surveillance cameras at their operational bases. The investigation has so far identified 58 instances of fraud, with authorities confiscating SIM cards, mobile phones, cash, jewelry, precision scales, and vehicles.

The arrested individuals have been handed over to the judicial authorities, and the investigation is ongoing to uncover any further involvement in other cases and to fully map the extent of the organization's activities. This successful operation highlights the persistent threat of sophisticated scams and the diligent work of Greek law enforcement in protecting citizens from financial crime.