OPKEPE Welcomes Inspection by Internal Affairs and Prosecutors

On Monday, May 18, 2025, a tier of the Police Internal Affairs Service conducted an inspection at OPKEPE’s (Organization for Payments and Control of Community Aid Orientation and Guarantees) archives, with the assistance of the Directorate of Criminal Research and in the presence of two prosecutors, following an order from the Greek Office of European Delegated Prosecutors. According to OPKEPE’s announcement, all requested data was handed over, facilitating the smooth execution of the inspection. The new administration’s sole goal is the complete restoration of OPKEPE’s credibility as the only accredited manager of European Agricultural Funds (EAGF & EAFRD), amounting to approximately €3 billion annually. Efforts are being made to thoroughly investigate any shadows from the past and assign responsibilities where they arise, regardless of hierarchical level. OPKEPE believes this effort will yield positive results, especially when combined with the implementation of the Action Plan agreed upon with the relevant services of the European Commission. They express confidence that the organization will emerge stronger and more trustworthy, significantly supporting Greek farmers. However, it is noted that this welcome investigation coincided with the organization’s revelation of the unacceptable removal of Ms. Tycheropoulou from the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. They were also surprised by the establishment of a television crew at the main entrance of the organization while multiple electronic media outlets reported on the inspection.