https://greekcitytimes.com/2024/07/05/greek-singer-antonis-remos-assets-frozen-amid-e1-5-million-money-laundering-and-tax-evasion-investigation/

Antonis Remos, a renowned Greek folk singer, is under investigation by the Anti-Money Laundering Authority for alleged tax evasion and money laundering amounting to €1.5 million. His movable and immovable properties have been frozen as a part of the probe.

Remos, through his lawyers, has firmly denied any wrongdoing. "I have never committed tax evasion, I was never called for an explanation," he stated.

He expressed his frustration over the handling of the investigation, claiming, "I was informed with regret and reasonable concern that the Anti-Money Laundering Authority has attached all of my movable and immovable property because I may have committed the crime of tax evasion. My regret is a result of a secret procedural process being illegally leaked to the media, and thus exposing me, and my question is that I was never called by the higher Authority to give explanations and provide evidence, which would prove that I have not committed tax evasion. I look forward to receiving a call immediately to find out what is attributed to me, so that I can shake off any censure against me."

The investigation by the Authority has revealed that the alleged tax evasion and money laundering were linked not to Remos' entertainment activities but to a company he owns.

After months of investigation, the Authority proceeded to freeze his assets, including personal accounts, company accounts, boats, and potentially any bank safes, up to the amount of €1.5 million.

The audit indicated discrepancies in Remos' tax returns, noting that over the last five years, he reported an income of approximately €50,000 per year, which the Authority considered unusually low for an artist of his stature. Remos is known for his highly successful performances that attract a significant audience, including prominent Greek and foreign businessmen.

The collected data and the Authority's conclusions have been handed over to the Financial Prosecutor, who is now conducting an investigation. This probe is not limited to Remos alone but is also extending to his associates.

Charalambos Vourliotis, President of the Anti-Money Laundering Authority, confirmed the evidence was robust enough to warrant freezing Remos' assets. The investigation will continue to scrutinise the details of the alleged tax evasion and money laundering activities.