OLAF opent record aantal onderzoeken in eerste kwartaal

As people and organisations in all corners of the world are grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, fraudsters regrettably continue their illegal activities, sometimes also unscrupulously taking advantage of the situation. The coronavirus outbreak has offered new opportunities for fraudsters, for example, as demand has soared for medical, personal protection and hygiene products. Based in a locked-down Brussels, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) nevertheless remains fully operational. The Office continues to deliver results. Since 16 March 2020:

• 48 new selection cases were opened based on information of investigative interest.

• 82 selections were closed resulting in 23 new investigations, in 5 coordination cases and in 54 dismissed cases.

• During the first three months of 2020, OLAF opened a total of 104 new investigations, which is a historical record.

• 19 investigations were completed, out of which 12 were closed with recommendations to relevant authorities 

• 2 coordination cases were concluded.

Bron: OLAF