Massive Oil Smuggling Ring Busted in Germany: 37 Million Liters, 52 Million Euros
Over 37 million liters of smuggled oil, valued at approximately 52 million euros, was suspected to have been sold as diesel fuel across Germany without IRS tax. Customs investigators, along with tax investigation offices, raided 32 locations nationwide, seizing evidence and vehicles, and executing arrest warrants.
The operation, involving around 300 personnel, targeted a company in Upper Franconia suspected of selling untaxed diesel fuel through its tanker trucks and gas stations. Over 230 investigators secured extensive evidence, including business documents, mobile phones, and over 30,000 euros in cash. They also seized 15 tanker trucks, 6 trucks, 6 trailers, and 10 passenger cars.
Investigators believe that up to 16 tanker trucks with smuggled oil were pumped into the company's diesel tanks daily since early 2023. Five Polish tanker trucks were stopped en route to the company, and a suspect attempted to destroy written records on a plane. The preliminary estimated IRS tax loss is around 18 million euros for energy tax and an additional 3.6 million euros for VAT evasion.
Six arrest warrants were executed against members of groups suspected of supplying the smuggled oil. The senior public prosecutor overseeing the investigations is Stéphane Kellenberger. The operation highlights the determination to combat tax evasion and illegal activities in the fuel industry.
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