Financial Crime World

Title: Libyan Businessman Murad Ali Al-Furjani Arrested in Malta over Money Laundering Allegations

Arrest of Libyan Businessman in Malta

In a recent development, a Libyan businessman, Murad Ali Al-Furjani, was arrested in Malta last week on suspicion of money laundering and criminal conspiracy. According to Times of Malta, Al-Furjani is wanted by Maltese authorities for his alleged involvement in a €20 million money laundering and tax evasion racket.

Previous Charges against Libyan Nationals

Back in 2021, Libyan nationals Hesham Zayed, Essem Mohamed Edernawi, Khaled Baely, Hdidan Tamer Ramadan Ali, and five companies, represented by Zayed, were charged in court for their involvement in this case. Maltese police had coordinated investigations with foreign jurisdictions, including the US, the UK, Italy, and Europol.

Alleged Activities of Al-Furjani

Al-Furjani, a Tripoli native, was arrested in Malta during a brief visit, after he came to the attention of the Maltese authorities. According to Prosecuting Inspector Keith Mallan’s testimony, police had received information about several Maltese citizens of Arab origin declaring substantial sums of cash at the Malta International Airport.

Charges against Al-Furjani

Al-Furjani was charged in court with money laundering, criminal conspiracy, and making a false declaration in any document intended for use by a public or any other authority. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded in custody, with his defence counsels, Arthur Azzopardi and Jacob Magri, making no request for bail due to his lack of a fixed address and employment in Malta.

Money Laundering through Malta

Law enforcement officials had expressed concern that the money being laundered through Malta is suspected to be linked to criminal activities not only in Libya, but also beyond.

  • €20 million Money Laundering Racket: Maltese authorities suspect the involvement of several individuals, including Murad Ali Al-Furjani, in a €20 million money laundering racket.
  • Preliminary Investigations: Maltese police had coordinated investigations with foreign jurisdictions, including the US, the UK, Italy, and Europol.
  • Link to Criminal Activities: There are concerns that the money laundered through Malta could be linked to criminal activities not only in Libya, but also beyond.

Ongoing Investigations

The investigation against Murad Ali Al-Furjani is ongoing, and further details about the case are expected to be released in due course.