Athens:Greek Basketball Federation President Vangelis Liolios was arrested on Wednesday as part of an investigation into alleged match-fixing, bribery, and corruption involving basketball officials and referees.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Liolios and four others were taken into custody following the issuance of six arrest warrants. The investigation is being led by Athens sports prosecutor Apostolos Grammenos and the Organized Crime Directorate and involves allegations of bribery and manipulation of basketball matches.
The individuals arrested reportedly include referees and a senior refereeing official. Businessman and former basketball player Giorgos Mavraganis is still being sought by authorities. The probe covers approximately 50 games played between 2016 and 2026, ranging from youth and school competitions to Greece's top-tier basketball league.
In the course of the investigation, authorities discovered approximately £820,000 ($955,000) in cash at a referee's home in Katerini, while around £7,500 was found at Liolios' residence. The Hellenic Basketball Federation stated that its board held an emergency meeting to discuss the ongoing legal proceedings concerning Greek basketball and that it will continue monitoring the case through official announcements and procedures.