The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has launched a large-scale investigation in Croatia over suspected corruption linked to European Union agricultural subsidy funds. Authorities carried out coordinated raids and evidence collection operations across several regions of the country as part of the probe.
According to EPPO, the investigation involves allegations of abuse of official positions, bribery, document falsification, and irregular distribution of EU agricultural subsidies. Preliminary findings suggest that the case may involve a structured and organized financial corruption network operating over an extended period.
Law enforcement agencies and financial investigators conducted synchronized operations across multiple counties in central Croatia. Officials examined subsidy payment records, land ownership documents, and financial transactions connected to the distribution of agricultural funding. No suspects have been publicly identified so far, as authorities aim to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
Investigators are examining claims that fake land ownership declarations and manipulated agricultural usage records may have been used to unlawfully obtain EU subsidies. Authorities are also looking into whether public officials were involved in enabling or supporting these alleged irregularities.
Croatia’s Ministry of Agriculture stated that reforms are already being introduced to strengthen transparency and oversight within the country’s payment agency and land registry systems. The government said it is improving digital record-keeping and audit processes to ensure that public funds reach legitimate beneficiaries.
EPPO said the investigation remains in its early stages and warned that further details cannot yet be disclosed. The agency stressed that misuse of EU financial resources would face strict legal action under European law.
The case follows similar agricultural subsidy controversies in other European countries, including Greece, where allegations involving fake livestock claims and land-use manipulation recently triggered political and administrative scrutiny.
Experts say weaknesses in land registration systems, monitoring mechanisms, and transparency controls have made agricultural subsidy programs vulnerable to organized fraud across parts of Europe.
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