29 January 2025 , 08:47
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Greek court orders mining magnate Beny Steinmetz’s extradition to Romania, as legal battles and allegations of fraud continue across Europe.
This is reported by OCCRP.
The Athens Court of Appeals ruled on Tuesday that French-Israeli businessman Beny Steinmetz should be extradited to Romania. Steinmetz’ legal team immediately challenged the decision at a higher instance, filing an appeal with Greece’s supreme court.
“Despite the deep disappointment it causes us, today’s decision does not shake my client’s faith in Greek Justice,” said Stavros Togias, the lawyer defending Steinmetz in a written statement. “We have already filed an appeal with the Areios Pagos.”
“This is a development that raises huge questions, as the decision of the Athens Council of Appeals contradicts the 2022 decision of the same court which concerns the exact same case and the same request of the Romanian Authorities”, said Togias noting that the new ruling also went against the prosecution’s proposal.
Steinmetz, who was arrested at the airport upon his arrival to Greece in October last year, had previously successfully challenged Romania’s arrest warrant after being detained in Greece in November 2021.
Romania seeks Steinmetz’ extradition to serve a 5-years prison sentence imposed in 2020, after he was convicted of forming an “organized criminal group.” The group allegedly conspired with Prince Paul Philippe of Romania, to fraudulently acquire over $100 million worth of real estate. Both men strongly deny any wrongdoing.
Romania’s arrest warrant led to Steinmetz being arrested in Cyprus in August 2023. However, the island’s Supreme Court also rejected his extradition, citing concerns over inhumane treatment.
Steinmetz has also been sentenced to three years - half in jail, half suspended - in a separate case in Switzerland, and is awaiting a ruling on his appeal, filed in early 2023. Last month Steinmetz claimed to have unearthed new documents showing that the original prosecutor in the case had “violated criminal procedure.” It is “evident that Beny Steinmetz was denied his right to a fair trial,” according to a statement on his behalf.
When contacted by OCCRP, a representative for Steinmetz claimed to be unaware of his whereabouts. However, Steinmetz has been repeatedly seen in restaurants in Athens in recent weeks, as he awaits the outcome of his extradition case.