European Public Prosecutor’s Office Leads Financial Fraud Investigation in Slovakia: €2.65M Potential Losses

Background

The Financial Administration Criminal Office (Kriminálny úrad finančnej správy) in Slovakia, in cooperation with the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), launched a significant investigation targeting the non-payment of customs taxes on imported goods worth an estimated €2.65 million.

Published on: 11 November 2022

Collaborative Efforts and Seizure of Evidence

On 2 November 2022, the Financial Administration Criminal Office executed:

1. Two house searches in the Slovak cities of Dunajská Streda and Komárno,
2. One site search.

The searches resulted in the seizure of:

• Electronic devices, such as mobile phones, PCs, tablets, and memory cards,
• Accounting documents.

Initial Findings of the Investigation

An accountant, along with a group of unidentified accomplices, orchestrated the importation of goods from China. They diverted numerous payments for the imported goods to bank accounts located in China. The imported items were subject to customs duties and various related charges.

Ongoing Examination

The Financial Administration Criminal Office is currently examining the seized electronic devices and documents, with the assistance of experts, to validate the findings of the initial investigation phase.

European Public Prosecutor’s Office Takes Action Against Financial Fraud

The EPPO is leading a decisive fight against cross-border financial fraud, safeguarding the European Union (EU)’s financial interests and ensuring a level playing field for businesses within the EU.

Significance of Combatting Financial Crimes

The potential losses from the underpaid customs duties and additional charges total an estimated €2.65 million. This investigation highlights the importance of combating such financial crimes to maintain the integrity and fairness of EU trade policies.