The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) has uncovered a serious fraud involving EU funds for rural development.
Four agricultural entrepreneurs from the province of Salerno have been investigated for having unduly received almost half a million euros, allocated under the Rural Development Plan of Campania.
The investigations, conducted by the Guardia di Finanza and coordinated by the Naples Office of the EPPO, revealed a complex fraudulent system.
The farmers involved allegedly submitted to the competent authorities applications for funding containing false and misleading declarations regarding the size of the agricultural areas actually cultivated.
This trick allowed them to unjustifiably increase the economic size of their companies, exceeding the minimum requirements set by the tender and thus guaranteeing access to European contributions.
The inspections carried out on the field by the financial police confirmed the irregularities reported. The checks highlighted a significant discrepancy between the areas declared in the applications for financing and those actually cultivated, corroborating the investigative hypotheses of the European Public Prosecutor's Office.
Following this evidence, the Judge for Preliminary Investigations ordered the precautionary seizure of assets for a total value of over 470 thousand euros. This precautionary measure is aimed at ensuring the return of the funds unduly received and preventing further asset dissipation.
The operation conducted by the EPPO represents a severe blow to economic crime and a strong signal of attention towards the correct use of European funds. The coordinated action of the judicial authorities and law enforcement agencies demonstrates the determination to combat all forms of fraud and to protect the interests of citizens and the European Union.
Article published on 21 October 2024 - 15:07
