A joint operation led by German and Slovenian authorities, with the coordination support of FINCEN, resulted in the arrest of three key suspects in a wide-reaching case of illegal labour trafficking and tax evasion in the construction sector. The scheme is estimated to have cost German tax authorities approximately €12 million in losses.
The suspects allegedly ran a complex operation involving at least two Slovenian shell companies used to move Bosnian workers illegally into Germany. These companies acted as bogus subcontractors, enabling the use of forged work permits and the avoidance of mandatory social contributions. The workers were primarily deployed on building sites in the Kassel area (Hesse), and were paid in cash through fake invoicing structures designed to sidestep tax obligations.
Investigations began in 2022 under the direction of the Public Prosecution Office (PPO) in Kassel. FINCEN played a pivotal role in streamlining collaboration between German and Slovenian agencies, arranging coordination meetings in 2024 and supporting the sharing of intelligence and investigative resources across borders.
The coordinated action day saw over 300 law enforcement officers carry out 21 searches in Germany (Hesse, Bremen, and Munich) and Slovenia. German officers also participated in the Slovenian searches. Authorities seized electronic devices, mobile phones, three vehicles, and froze multiple bank accounts.
Authorities Involved:
Germany: Public Prosecution Office Kassel; Giessen Head Office of Customs and Excise
Slovenia: District State Prosecutor’s Office Ljubljana; Ljubljana Police Directorate, Criminal Police Division, Economic Crime Section
