- Customs searching Berlin firms - area sealed off
In Berlin, customs authorities raided the business premises of two companies. According to the General Customs Directorate in Cologne, there is suspicion that the companies have violated economic sanctions against Russia.
Around 100 officials were involved in the operation at the building complex in the district of Tempelhof-Schöneberg, it was reported. They sealed off the premises and searched for assets that were to be secured. "Further, interrogations will be conducted and extensive additional evidence secured, which will be evaluated in the course of the proceedings," customs said in a statement.
Court order enforced
The competent Central Authority for Sanctions Enforcement (ZfS) enforced a ruling by the local court. According to research by Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg, the two companies are Russian logistics firms. According to customs, both are subject to an EU sanctions regulation, which could lead to the freezing of funds and assets of natural or legal persons.
The EU sanctions against Russia have been in place since the annexation of Crimea in 2014. After the Russian attack on Ukraine, the measures were expanded in February 2022 and further tightened in June 2024.
Customs statement
The raid on the companies in Tempelhof-Schöneberg is suspected to be linked to possible involvement in crimes against economic sanctions, specifically those imposed on Russia due to its actions in Crimea and Ukraine. If found guilty, the companies could face the freezing of their funds and assets as per EU sanctions regulations.
