NGO allegedly diverted donations for sick children to luxury spending

Greek authorities are investigating a non-governmental organization suspected of diverting donations intended for children with serious health problems. According to the case file, nearly 550,000 euros were collected for three cases, but only 62,800 euros reached the families.

Investigators say a company described as a shell firm received 55,000 euros from the association. Bank records show payments for luxury hotels, designer purchases, restaurants, air travel, and food deliveries.

“According to the case file, nearly 550,000 euros were collected for three cases, but only 62,800 euros reached the families.”

A woman with a central role in the case stayed at a five-star resort on the Chersonesus peninsula in Crete during the summer of 2026, costing 4,775 euros. She also spent 3,105 euros in two transactions at Louis Vuitton and 574 euros on a meal in Mykonos.

Other documented expenses include a 2,738.76 euro hotel booking, 1,049.73 euros in food orders, 728.04 euros in airline costs, and 2,500 euros paid to a car rental company. Cash withdrawals totaling 24,300 euros were also found.

The woman asked an Athens hotel for a specific suite for November 1 and 2, requesting that her partner's name be included in the reservation. In an October 23 phone call, she reportedly mentioned a 250 euro two-hour cruise and a famous Mykonos restaurant.

Six people have been arrested in the investigation. Police from the Chania Directorate also took part in the operation because the case has a Cretan dimension. Authorities are additionally examining suspected involvement of organization members in illegal betting and football match-fixing.

The investigation continues as prosecutors review bank transactions and recorded conversations.