Major operation in Foggia: 20 precautionary measures for social security fraud and illegal immigration. The investigation is focused on two lines: the first concerns social security and welfare fraud.
A criminal organization based in Cerignola committed a multi-million dollar fraud against the Italian National Institute of Social Security (INPS). Through four "phantom" agricultural companies, they hired 4 fake farm workers.
The fake laborers unduly received social security and welfare benefits for over 2 million euros. An agricultural entrepreneur (DA) is believed to be at the center of the fraud.
A tax and labor consultant (PM) created the "phantom" agricultural companies and prepared the false invoices.
A Tax Assistance Center (LM) manager has completed the procedures for benefits. An INPS official (CC) has expedited the payment of benefits.
Facilitating illegal immigration
The same "ghost" agricultural companies were used to facilitate the entry of non-EU citizens into Italy. The non-EU citizens paid approximately €3.000 per person to obtain a fake work visa.
The agricultural entrepreneur (DA) is in competition with 9 procurers in Italy and France.
The tax consultant (PM) prepared false documentation for the clearance requests.
A retired former prefectural official (DO) provided information on immigration practices in exchange for money.
Precautionary measures: 11 pre-trial detentions, 4 house arrests, 1 ban from residing in the province of Foggia, 4 prohibitions on carrying out business activities. Preventive seizure of over 5 million euros.
The operation by the Foggia Guardia di Finanza (Financial Police) dismantled a criminal organization that exploited the Italian social security and welfare system and facilitated illegal immigration.
Collaboration between institutions
The operation was made possible thanks to the collaboration between the Guardia di Finanza, the Italian National Institute of Social Security (INPS), and the Foggia Public Prosecutor's Office. The operation represents an important step in the fight against economic crime and illegal immigration.
EDITORIAL TEAM
Choose the social channel you want to subscribe to