All seven defendants involved in the Rhodes Urban Planning corruption scandal have been released under strict conditions and financial guarantees totaling €100,000.

The investigating judge and the prosecutor ruled that pre-trial detention was not necessary, as there was no risk of flight, reoffending, or evidence tampering.

The case, which involves allegations of forged building permits, bribery, and illicit wealth, will now proceed to trial.

Court Decisions

• 68-year-old architect: Released with a €70,000 bail, monthly police check-ins, and a travel ban.
• 48-year-old Head of the Building Permit Department: Released with a €100,000 bail, monthly police check-ins, and a travel ban.
• 56-year-old Deputy Director of the Urban Planning Service: Released with a €30,000 bail, monthly police check-ins, and a travel ban.
• 55-year-old Head of Construction Inspections: Released with a €50,000 bail, monthly police check-ins, and a travel ban.
• 65-year-old Archive Officer: Released with a €40,000 bail, monthly police check-ins, and a travel ban.
• 54-year-old Urban Planning employee: Released with a €20,000 bail, monthly police check-ins, and a travel ban.
• 48-year-old private civil engineer: Released with a €60,000 bail, monthly police check-ins, and a travel ban.

Investigation and Findings

The case began in June 2024 following an anonymous complaint about corrupt urban planning officials issuing illegal building permits for bribes.

A thorough investigation, including phone surveillance and document analysis, revealed an organized network within the department, operating like a private business for personal gain.

On March 19, 2025, police raided homes and offices, confiscating:

• Over €600,000 in cash
• More than 80 gold coins
• Numerous official seals
• Weapons, fake license plates, archival documents, and antiquities
• Multiple mobile phones and handwritten notes

The alleged ringleader, a 68-year-old architect, is accused of directing the group’s activities, including bribery and permit forgery.

Defendants’ Statements

All defendants denied the charges, claiming they were victims of false accusations and procedural errors. Some argued the large sums of cash found in their homes were from legitimate savings or property sales. Others cited their clean criminal records and poor health as reasons to avoid detention.

Despite their release, they will now have to defend themselves in court as the trial progresses.