Title: Maltese Police Freeze Millions in Money Laundering Operation: Five Suspects Charged

Seizure of Assets in Money Laundering Investigation

• The Financial Crime Investigations Department (FCID) of the Malta Police Force announced the seizure of luxury assets in a money laundering operation
• 36 luxury vehicles, €60,000 in cash, valuable jewellery, designer clothes, electronic equipment, and documents were seized
• Three suspects were in police custody with two others being interrogated
• 12 companies facing charges

Intensive Investigations and International Collaboration

• The operation, code-named Proteus, saw the freezing of several million euros
• Investigations were conducted with Europol, Italian government, the United Kingdom, and the United States
• Multi-million euro international fuel smuggling operations, ties to the Italian mafia, and Libyan armed groups involved

Warnings from Europol and the US Embassy

• Europol issued a stern warning against money laundering and fraud threats
• The US Embassy in Valletta emphasized the importance of international partnerships and cooperation

Suspects Linked to Transnational Criminal Networks

• Some of the suspects were believed to be part of major smuggling conspiracies spanning Europe and North Africa
• Criminals successfully conceal over 98% of their ill-gained assets, according to Europol

Maltese Authorities Encourage Reporting of Money Laundering Activities

• The Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit contact number: 2133 6862
• Crimestoppers line: 1732