The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has confirmed that assets have been seized as part of an investigation into alleged EU agricultural funding fraud in Sardinia.

At the request of EPPO in Rome, the Italian Carabinieri carried out the preventive seizures.

The EPPO investigation revealed a complex fraud scheme involving the false declaration of ownership and availability of agricultural land to obtain EU subsidies under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

Fraud

According to the prosecutors, between 2020 and 2023, the suspects, acting through multiple companies under their control, are believed to have submitted applications for EU rural development funds.

They falsely declared to have farm or lease land parcels they did not own or legally hold.

These declarations were certified by a regional agricultural assistance centre, which EPPO said failed to carry out proper due diligence, allowing the disbursement of over €114,000 in public funds.

The unlawfully obtained funds were allegedly subsequently laundered through bank accounts and reinvested in commercial activities and movable assets, including the acquisition of a high-end SUV.

The case is part of a broader investigative effort aimed at combating fraud in the agricultural subsidy sector in Sardinia.

EPPO noted that the people involved are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in the competent Italian courts of law.

EPPO is the independent public prosecution office of the European Union. It is responsible for investigating, prosecuting and bringing to judgment crimes against the financial interests of the EU.