A Thessaloniki-based facility, allegedly operating as an addiction recovery center, has come under scrutiny by the authorities.

According to reports, the investigation began following a complaint regarding the legality of the facility’s operations. The center presents itself as a non-profit association, providing counseling sessions for individuals struggling with drug addiction, gambling, alcohol abuse, and similar issues.

A preliminary investigation is already underway, while authorities are also looking into allegations of tax evasion and fraud. As part of the inquiry, the Financial Police launched an investigation, leading to the arrest of the individual listed as the facility’s legal representative. A case file has been compiled against them.

Following an order from the prosecutor, the Financial Police have been instructed to continue the investigation to complete the case file and determine whether specific criminal offenses have been committed. The findings from the preliminary investigation will be evaluated by the Thessaloniki Prosecutor’s Office.

It is noted that the legal representative of the association was released pending the completion of the investigation by the authorities.

Official Statement from the Hellenic Police (EL.AS.):

The Northern Greece Organized Crime Unit arrested a local resident in Thessaloniki yesterday morning, Thursday, February 20, 2025, in a flagrante delicto procedure. The individual was operating addiction recovery programs and providing treatment services in a facility without obtaining the required license from the competent authority.

A case file has been compiled against them for violations of drug laws, unauthorized operation of an addiction treatment center, fraud, violations of weapons laws, and money laundering from criminal activities.

The preliminary investigation revealed that the individual ran rehabilitation programs and offered treatment services in an unauthorized facility in Thessaloniki, charging monthly fees for each participant, with the intent of generating illegal income.

Among the services provided was psychiatric evaluation, where a psychiatrist would issue prescriptions for medication.

During search operations conducted at the facility, authorities found two individuals working as volunteers, as well as patients undergoing treatment and residing at the facility. Searches were also carried out at residential properties.

The searches resulted in the seizure of:

• €1,800 in cash
• 4 digital storage devices (USBs)
• A desktop computer
• Numerous documents related to the case
• A collapsible metal baton and a folding knife

The arrested individual will be brought before the competent prosecutorial authority.