Greek police have revealed surprising information regarding a number of amusement parks set up illegally in Greece, while the uproar surrounding the tragic accident that cost the life of a 13-year old boy in Hellenico has yet to settle. Greek authorities have uncovered a ring responsible for setting up amusement parks all over Greece, using fake documents and security certificates.
Five men, including three Greeks and two foreigners are involved in the case, while a 57-year-old man appears to be the “brain” behind the ring. Over past two years they have set up 36 amusement parks which operated in various Greek municipalities, using forged documents for the establishment and safe operation of the amusement park facilities.
The 10-month survey shows that the 57-year old “brain” of the operation with the help of his partners, created virtual companies using circuses and amusement parks in various areas around Greece. In addition, taxes and contributions were not paid, for revenues collected from these businesses.
What’s even worse is the parks worked under forged signatures and stamps of civil engineers and mechanics, instead of having specialized professionals to consult regarding safety. All fake documents were being submitted to the municipalities offices which issued the authorizations of installation and operation. On top of this, they had forged the official stamp of the Municipality of Thessaloniki, using it to authenticate the signatures on the certificates.
It is estimated that the ring made tens of thousands euros, while the damage to the Greek Public Sector is up to 900,000 euros. Most importantly, the huge number of people who visited those amusement parks were unaware of the fact that their own safety was endangered.
Those arrested were charged with repeated forgery, false certification, fraud and infringement of the Law on Embezzlement of Public Wealth.
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