OPKEPE: Pregnant Woman Accused in Subsidy Scam Released with Restrictions

The first 12 of the 37 suspects in the OPKEPE illegal subsidy case, dating back to 2018, have begun their testimonies before the investigating judge. Among them was a pregnant woman who yesterday afternoon felt unwell and was taken to hospital. According to sources, she denied any involvement in the OPKEPE scheme and has been released under restrictive conditions. She claimed during her testimony that she was a victim of fraud by an accountant and a real estate agent. She stated she registered as a farmer in 2019, focusing on cotton cultivation, and was looking for land to lease. “A land agent told me he found available plots and referred me to an accountant to handle the paperwork. I submitted my application assuming all legal procedures would be followed. Later, I learned the landlords didn’t actually own those plots, and realized I had been defrauded by the accountant and agent—whom I’ve since sued,” she reportedly said. The defendants appearing today face charges related to subsidies of 500, 800, and 1,000 euros. Most claim their actions were entirely legal. Others scheduled to appear maintain the same stance, insisting their conduct complied with the law. The accused face serious charges including three felonies and one misdemeanor. The hearing will continue Saturday, Sunday, and conclude Monday when the final group will testify. The European Public Prosecutor’s Office has charged the suspects with criminal organization, subsidy fraud, money laundering, and falsifying official documents.