A major corruption scandal has rocked the Urban Planning Authority of Rhodes, as authorities continue an ongoing investigation into bribery, fraud, and organized crime within the department. According to local media, seven individuals, including five public officials and two private engineers, have already been arrested, while authorities are looking into the possible involvement of additional suspects, including a former department head.
Raids, Arrests, and Cash Seizures
The investigation, led by the Hellenic Police Force Internal Affairs Directorate, has been underway since June 2024, following a series of whistleblower complaints alleging widespread bribery and illicit deals within the urban planning office.
Authorities raided the Urban Planning Authority on Rhodes on Wednesday morning, alongside multiple home searches. During these operations, investigators seized:
- Over 200,000 euros in cash, believed to be linked to illicit transactions.
- Computers, mobile phones, and hard drives, which are now being examined for further evidence.
- Official documents and case files, suspected of containing fraudulent approvals and altered permits.
The seven arrested suspects—including the deputy director of the department, four section heads, and two private engineers—were taken into custody and are expected to appear before the Rhodes’ Public Prosecutor’s Office. They face serious charges including bribery, money laundering, forgery, and abuse of power.
How the Alleged Corruption Scheme Worked
According to preliminary findings, the arrested officials are believed to have formed an organized network that facilitated fraudulent urban planning approvals in exchange for bribes. The scheme allegedly benefited business owners, hoteliers, and private citizens who sought expedited permits or illegal modifications to zoning regulations.
Authorities suspect that this operation had been ongoing for years, potentially predating the official start of the investigation in mid-2024. Wiretapped conversations and additional testimony have provided crucial evidence of how the illicit network functioned.
Reactions from Local Authorities
The Mayor of Rhodes, Alexander Basile Coliadis, emphasized the need for a thorough legal process, stating:
“The investigation is ongoing. We trust our institutions and want every instance of corruption to be dealt with according to the law. Our priority is to ensure that the Urban Planning Authority continues to function properly and is staffed with personnel unconnected to this case.”
Meanwhile, opposition politician Nikolaos Geronikolas called for full transparency, saying:
“This operation reveals serious systemic issues that cannot be ignored. We must ensure that no political influence interferes with the investigation. Accountability must be enforced at all levels.”
