Tax authorities in Greece are now targeting yacht owners, among other wealthy citizens, for tax evasion. A special financial crimes squad, known as SDOE, is now checking for tax payments for owners of yachts, luxury cars and expensive homes across Greece. Ioannis Kapeleris, head of SDOE, told the Associated Press (AP) that the cash-strapped country is now going after tax evaders. "There really was laxity — I'd dare say non-existence, of a system of inspections in recent years," Kapeleris told the news agency. "It resulted in the creation of a climate of tax impunity."
Tax evasion is seen as one of the problems that led to Greece's financial difficulties, though Kapeleris said it was impossible to give accurate figures for how much the country loses each year in uncollected revenues. "The honest truth is that you can't estimate it," he said.
Kapeleris says his unit, dubbed the "SDOE Rambos" by the press, has issued fines for €2.5bn for tax violations since the beginning of the year. The goal is to issue fines up to €5bn by year's end.
Five squads of 50 inspectors seek out marinas, upscale restaurants and housing developments seeking tax evaders. Islands in the Cyclades, including Mykonos, Paros, Naxos and Santorini, have been targeted by the SDOE during peak holiday times.
Kapeleris said his inspectors have issued summons for 2,900 violations this summer. "The results of the checks are indeed spectacular," he said.
21.08.2010
