A sweeping operation conducted by tax authorities in Corfu’s popular nightlife hub of Kavos has exposed a disturbing practice: bartenders were found collecting remnants from customers’ drinks and recycling them as shots served to unsuspecting patrons.

The extensive operation, spearheaded by the Independent Public Revenue Authority (AADE) to combat tax evasion and tackle the sale of adulterated beverages, has resulted in the temporary closure of a staggering 28 bars in the area, AMNA reported.

Kavos, located in the southern part of Corfu, has gained notoriety among foreign tourists, primarily from the UK, the US and Australia for its raucous party scene.

Over the years, it has informally earned a reputation as a “no-go zone,” where regulatory oversight has been conspicuously absent.

From August 30 to September 1, AADE tax and customs auditors, in collaboration with law enforcement officers, executed simultaneous raids on various bars and restaurants in the region.

The auditors scrutinised the issuance and formal registration of receipts, while customs officials ensured the drinks served were untainted and compliant with regulations, free from adulteration or smuggling.

Throughout the operation, AADE personnel maintained direct communication with inspectors via an Operations Room, closely monitoring the progress of inspections and receiving real-time videos and photographs of their findings.

The investigation uncovered the following infractions:

  • 26 catering establishments failed to issue a minimum of 40,578 receipts, amounting to a total value of €267,418.
  • 2 catering establishments neglected to transmit 1,204 receipts, totaling €8,252.
  • 7 catering establishments dispensed drinks lacking lot number markings, indicating potential smuggling and adulteration. Notably, 8 samples were collected and subsequently sent for analysis by the State General Chemistry Department.

Of particular concern were the instances where bars were found to be repurposing leftover contents from customers’ glasses.

These remnants were pooled into a container and subsequently served as shots to unsuspecting tourists. Consequently, these businesses faced a 48-hour closure and financial penalties.

Authorities have indicated that ongoing inspections are underway in other popular tourist areas, underscoring their commitment to ensuring compliance and safeguarding public health.

Watch the video coverage of control checks at Kavos bars via iefimerida.gr below