An international investigation, coordinated by the European Prosecutor’s Office and executed by the Financial Investigations and Intelligence Service (FNTT) in cooperation with the State Security Department (VSD), has uncovered instances of financial fraud related to the European Union’s space program agency (EUSPA). The inquiry revealed that Belarusian citizens, operating through a company controlled in Lithuania, were involved in a scheme that resulted in the fraudulent acquisition of nearly half a million euros. The core of the misused funds related to an EUSPA project designed to develop high-precision satellite navigation devices specifically for the agricultural sector.
During the pre-trial investigation, authorities determined that a company based in Lithuania had been awarded EU funding. This funding was earmarked for the development of professional satellite navigation receivers capable of utilizing the “Galileo” High-Accuracy Service (HAS) for diverse agricultural applications. The investigation suggests a systematic misappropriation of resources intended for technological advancement within the agricultural sector.
The findings point to the exploitation of EU funding mechanisms by individuals connected to Belarusian nationals, using a Lithuanian corporate structure to obscure the fraudulent activity. The scope of the investigation indicates a significant breach of trust concerning sensitive European infrastructure projects. Authorities continue to examine the full extent of the financial transactions and the individuals involved in diverting these specialized funds.
Topics: #involved #received #investigation
