The intervention of the SDOE was caused by the intense protests of residents and civic associations, about the peculiar bazaar that was standing, every Christmas and Easter, in the Field of Mars.

According to information, the inspectors of the prosecution of economic crime request the provision of information both on the existence of open-air markets, within the Park in the current period, as well as the relevant contracts that have been made between the Association of traders and the competent services of the Attica Region.

This is a preliminary check, which – according to the same sources – and depending on the data that will emerge it is very likely that it will also lead to administrative control of the body by a special echelon. In fact, if responsibilities emerge from the preliminary examination, the relevant conclusion will almost certainly be forwarded to the competent Prosecutor for the investigation of any criminal responsibilities.

The complaints that had seen the light of day, in the previous period, they showed the Association that operated the bazaar “renting” the premises with amounts starting from 1,200 euros and reaching 1,800 euros per day, when each of the 200 or so stands paid rent to the Attica Region of just 100 euros per day. These festive bazaars, in fact, lasted for almost two months, with the makeshift stalls that were set up to sell products of dubious origin, at really low prices, while the complaints even speak of carrying out activities without the required approval and licensing. This is a practice that had started during the tenure of Douros and continued during the Patoulis era. According to the relevant information, depending on what comes to light from the preliminary examination of the SDOE auditors, the time period of the period under investigation may be extended.

It is noted that a few days before, the The regional governor of Attica had spoken of an orgy of illegal trade, which he intends to fight with all lawful actions, pointing out that he will put an end to indecency and opacity practices. He had, in fact, announced the creation of festive villages with free events for young and old – on the model of festive theme parks abroad – starting from Christmas 2024, adding that the Field of Mars will return, as it should, to the residents and visitors to the center as a model of sustainability and as a free space for sports and entertainment.