The first 12 defendants (out of a total of 37) in the new major OPEKEPE case began appearing today before the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) investigator, all reportedly denying the charges they face—three felonies and one misdemeanor, depending on the case.

According to information, the defendants claim that their actions were entirely lawful.

The first to testify before the EPPO investigator in Athens was a pregnant 27-year-old woman, who reportedly felt unwell yesterday afternoon and was taken to hospital. She denied all charges and was released under restrictive conditions after her testimony.

In her statement to the investigator, the 27-year-old reportedly said:

“I registered as a farmer in 2019 with cotton cultivation as my main activity. I was looking for land to lease. A land broker told me he had found available plots and referred me to an accountant who would handle the paperwork. I submitted the application assuming that all legal procedures would be followed. Later, however, I was informed that the lessors did not actually own the plots in question, and I realized that I had been deceived by the accountant and the broker, whom I have since reported for fraud.”

Most of those who appeared today are described as low-level members of the alleged criminal organization, accused of receiving subsidies of €1,000, €800, and €500.

The remaining defendants are scheduled to testify over the weekend, with the process expected to be completed by Monday.