Massive metal waste fraud in Italy halted with Eurojust support

Crime: Between 2018 and 2021, more than 18 000 tonnes of metal waste was illegally sold and processed in regularly operating foundries, leading to health risks and disturbed market competition for legally operating businesses. Fake certificates, declarations and invoices provided by fictitious companies in Slovakia, Hungary, Turkey, Egypt, Pakistan, China and Malaysia enabled the purchase of the metal 'off the books'.

Action: In March 2021, an action day involving 60 searches in Slovakia and Hungary took place to disrupt years of environmental crime and EUR 130 million worth of waste metal fraud.

Result: 15 suspects were arrested in Italy and Slovakia for the illegal trafficking of metal waste, money laundering and the issuance of fake invoices and documents. Computer equipment, electronic devices and documents were seized.

Eurojust's role: Eurojust coordinated the action day, assisted with the execution of EIOs in Hungary and Slovakia and provided support for the arrest of one suspect in Slovakia.