PASOK suspends party members allegedly involved in business extortion ring
PASOK suspended two party members on Tuesday for their alleged involvement in a business extortion ring recently busted by the authorities.
The decision was announced by the ethics committee of the party. “Due to their alleged involvement in a criminal case that has come to light, the committee on ethics has suspended the party membership of two members of PASOK, who have been informed, until the conclusion of the criminal proceedings,” read the announcement.
On Sunday, authorities announced the dismantling of an extortion ring that mainly targeted restaurants and hotels in Athens by offering protection to avoid administrative fines. The organization allegedly conducted targeted inspections and then blackmailed businesses to prevent future inspections or fines.
Police have arrested 14 people accused of participating in the ring, including nine public officials.
