60 https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/eurojust-supports-arrest-man-suspected-intentional-homicide-his-partner https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/sw-es-press-release-19-05-2026.jpg Police tape The reason for a woman’s disappearance from Switzerland is suspected to be intentional homicide by her partner. Swiss and Spanish authorities were able to arrest the suspect during a joint action day that took place in both countries. Throughout the investigation, authorities worked together with Eurojust to locate the suspect, collect evidence and find the remains of the victim. The victim was last seen in Switzerland after attending a medical appointment. In early 2026, the victim’s family suspected that she was missing after a period without contact. An investigation was then launched in Switzerland.Since the suspect had moved to a remote area in Spain, Swiss authorities needed support from their Spanish counterparts to continue the investigation. Through coordination by Eurojust, several Mutual Legal Assistance requests were executed and a joint action day was planned to take place in Spain and Switzerland.According to the results of the investigation, the death… Tue, 19 May 2026 14:00:00 +0200 9ba9997a-c352-49bc-ba65-8ff95bd2035b Crimes against life, limb and personal freedom Joint action day Spain Switzerland https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/western-balkan-chief-prosecutors-meet-sarajevo-third-consultative-forum-launch-practical-guide-jits https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/jit-experts-handbook-sarajevo.jpg meeting photo Western Balkan Chief Prosecutors to meet in Sarajevo for Third Consultative Forum and launch the new Practical Guide on Joint Investigation Teams (JITs) for Western Balkan Practitioners The third Regional Western Balkan Consultative Forum, organised by the Western Balkans Criminal Justice Project in cooperation with the Prosecutor’s Office of Bosnia and Herzegovina, took place in Sarajevo on 19 May 2026. Building on previous editions, the Forum brought together General and Special Chief Prosecutors from across the six Western Balkan countries to strengthen regional dialogue and cooperation.The Forum once again provided a platform for direct exchanges among partners, reinforcing shared priorities and trust across the region. Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in… Tue, 19 May 2026 14:00:00 +0200 66745b2f-0ad1-4f61-aef0-2eaab713861a Third countries WB CRIM JUST https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/23rd-crimex-meeting-focuses-conflict-jurisdictions-topics-and-joint-investigations-teams https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/group-picture-23rd-crimex-meeting.jpeg Group picture On 05-06 May 2026, the EuroMed Justice (EMJ) project organised the 23rd CrimEx meeting in Stockholm, Sweden. The meeting brought together criminal justice representatives from six South Partner Countries (SPCs) and eleven European Union Member States. Participants addressed technical and strategic aspects of international judicial cooperation, focusing on the topics of conflict of jurisdictions and Joint Investigations Teams. The outcomes and suggested recommendations from the 7th EMJNet meeting focusing on the topic of conflict of jurisdictions and Joint Investigations Teams were shared for the CrimEx representatives’ consideration and discussion. The CrimEx members exchanged on the challenges and best practices related to these topics and prepared consolidated recommendations for endorsement to the Prosecutor Generals Forum, planned for end of June. Participants took note of the project results in 2025 and planned activities in 2026 and further discussed the preparations and the agenda for the PG Forum.In… Tue, 19 May 2026 14:00:00 +0200 863decf6-3edb-4d16-b32c-18341d093000 EuroMed Justice https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/takedown-criminal-group-selling-fake-medicines-and-supplements-mislead-seriously-ill-victims https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/pills.png Pills Authorities from 15 countries worked together on 12 May to takedown a dangerous criminal group responsible for defrauding victims across Europe and beyond with fake supplements and medicines. The group allegedly claimed to sell legitimate medicines that cured serious illnesses. Their illegal activities generated EUR 240 million in illicit transactions. A coordinated action day resulted in the collection of important evidence, the detention of some of the main members of the group and the seizure of large supplies of supplements. Eurojust and Europol supported the investigations from the outset, ensuring efficient and effective cooperation between the 15 countries. From 2019, the group worked operated in a professional, hierarchical way. They set up companies through which they marketed supplements that were not authorised for sale. The criminal group sold over 400 differently named supplements. A network of virtual sellers built hundreds of websites and social media pages, often using the names and images of famous people and fake doctors to mislead victims from across the European Union and beyond. The criminal group trained their affiliates to create fake social media accounts, make them appear legitimate and avoid detection by social media companies… Thu, 14 May 2026 14:00:00 +0200 95214a6e-d812-463d-b6a8-c53c48f72c83 Economic crimes Bulgaria Cyprus Czech Republic Estonia Greece Hungary Italy Latvia Lithuania Poland Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Europol Moldova https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/fugitives-run-arrested-following-eurojust-coordinated-operation-against-organised-crime-group https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-it-es-fugitives-case.jpg police cars A complex joint investigation coordinated through Eurojust by the Italian and Spanish authorities has led to the identification and arrest of fugitives on the run from Italy linked to a Spanish organised crime group. In May 2021, an Italian national was arrested on charges of causing aggravated bodily harm and carrying a firearm in a public place. However, before he could be detained, the suspect evaded the execution of the pre-trial detention order issued by the Judge for Preliminary Investigations at the Court of Naples. The Italian authorities subsequently issued a Europe-wide arrest warrant and have been seeking the suspect’s whereabouts ever since.Meanwhile in Spain, authorities investigating a series of forged documents and identification papers uncovered an organised crime group. Members of the… Wed, 13 May 2026 14:00:00 +0200 c23e760c-18fd-46dd-a31f-4c64fbb40150 Organised crime European Arrest Warrant European Investigation Order Seizure Italy Spain https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/actions-against-human-trafficking-network-gaining-eur-15-million-sexual-exploitation https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/women-exploitation.jpg women exploitation - artwork During an international action day, Austrian and Romanian authorities worked together to dismantle a human trafficking network that sexually exploited young Romanian women in a club in Austria. Detention has been ordered for four suspects and multiple residences in Austria and Romania have been searched. The investigation was facilitated through a joint investigation team set up at Eurojust. In January 2023, three of the suspects who are related started their criminal activities and set up a sophisticated criminal group with clearly defined roles. The leader coordinated its members, who were responsible for the recruitment, transportation, transfer and housing of their victims, as well as coercing them into and facilitating prostitution.The group was able to lure over 20 victims into sexual exploitation. The vulnerable young women, some suffering from mental health conditions were deceived through fake romantic relationships. After they were lured into the relationship, the women… Fri, 08 May 2026 14:00:00 +0200 e6bbca9f-d1ba-4eec-881c-3a24aa3b0329 Trafficking in human beings Austria Romania Europol https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/eur-55-million-seized-public-funds-misappropriation-investigation https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/solar-panels.png Solar panels A company based in the province of Milan is suspected of misappropriating public funds linked to a solar power plant in the province of Caserta. As part of the ongoing Italian investigation, Eurojust coordinated the cooperation with Dutch authorities that led to the seizure of assets worth EUR 55 million. The investigation is looking into the company, its representative and the parent company in the Netherlands. Allegedly, they benefited from public funds to which they were not entitled, linked to a solar power plant built in Caserta. The suspects produced false documents to make it appear that three large-scale solar power plants had been completed before the deadline set by sector regulations. By claiming to deliver the plants early, the suspects obtained benefits from public funds.Eurojust facilitated cooperation between the Dutch and Italian authorities in the investigation. This revealed… Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 9c44e3fe-7d33-4f82-8939-b37b07daa004 Economic crimes Italy Netherlands https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/nine-arrests-connected-atm-bombings-across-europe https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-atm-bombings-case.jpg ATM A Dutch criminal group, suspected of carrying out ATM bombings in Germany and Switzerland has been dismantled following a coordinated investigation between several countries, supported by Eurojust and Europol. The suspects are allegedly responsible for approximately 10 attacks. Authorities carried out coordinated action days on 14, 15 and 22 April. Fifteen locations were searched in where cash, cocaine and vehicles were seized, along with materials that can be used to carry out the explosive attacks. Nine suspects were arrested. Six suspects were brought to court on 24 April, where it was decided to extend their pre-trial detention. Earlier actions had already led to the arrest of two members of the criminal group in the Netherlands.The arrests are the culmination of a joint investigation team (JIT) set up at Eurojust between Dutch, German and Swiss authorities.… Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 6ab7bb25-90db-4769-b195-6bda93b63943 Joint investigation teams France Germany Netherlands Switzerland https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/fraud-call-centres-targeting-eu-citizens-shut-down-eurojusts-support-over-eur-50-million https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/infocus-and-pr.jpg office room with computers A joint investigation by the Austrian and Albanian authorities, supported by Eurojust and Europol, has stopped a sophisticated criminal network running a large-scale online fraud operation. The investigation led to the arrest of 10 individuals, the search of several premises, and the seizure of close to EUR 900 000 and various items. In an investigation that spanned over two years, authorities successfully dismantled the cybercrime group, which was allegedly operating several call centres in Tirana, Albania. The criminal group is believed to have caused significant financial damage totalling over EUR 50 million.Inside a scam call centreThe online call centres run by the criminal network demonstrated a high level of organisation and professionalism, with a clear division of roles and hierarchical management, resembling legitimate business structures.The individuals involved worked in groups of six to eight operators,… Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 9e6629bd-40cf-414f-9a5d-20a6fb16eb6b Cybercrime Fraud Organised crime Austria Europol Albania https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/eurojust-facilitates-romanian-led-cross-border-action-against-alleged-corruption-public https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/romanian-french-money-laundring.png enveloppe with Euro bank notes Over 60 coordinated searches have taken place in Romania and France in the context of ongoing investigations into alleged corruption and money laundering linked to the procurement of public infrastructure in Bistrița-Năsăud and Sălaj Counties. On 22 April, Romanian judicial and law enforcement authorities conducted 69 searches at locations including the headquarters of two public institutions, private residences and the offices of several companies. In parallel, a European Investigation Order issued by the Romanian authorities was executed in France, resulting in the search of a residence connected to the case.Eurojust facilitated the investigation by organising a coordination meeting between the French and Romanian authorities, enabling real-time communication and cooperation among the national authorities to ensure that… Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 cbc822f6-bac0-4cf0-88a3-b506296c81eb Money laundering Coordination meeting France Romania https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/eurojust-handles-close-14-000-cases-2025-annual-report-now-live https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/ar25-cover-landscape.jpg Annual Report cover Discover Online ReportAs an integral part of the EU’s security and criminal justice architecture, Eurojust continues to increase its operational output, coordinating a record number of cases in 2025. The Eurojust Annual Report 2025 showcases the operational achievements of the agency including its growing number of casework, expanding global partnerships and expertise as the eminent EU hub for judicial cooperation. Operational OutcomesIn 2025, Eurojust delivered a significant operational impact in the fight against cross-border crime. The Agency supported 13 946 criminal investigations, including 5 582 newly registered cases, and facilitated a record 412 joint investigation teams—nearly half of which also benefited from Eurojust funding totalling over EUR 2 million.Eurojust’s efforts contributed to the arrest or surrender of more than 4 443 suspects and the seizure or freezing of criminal assets valued at approximately EUR 1.2 billion. In addition, the Agency supported operations leading to the… Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 31af0fa5-01fa-4f76-b724-9680edc80f66 https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/genocide-prosecution-network-39th-meeting-explores-unlawful-attacks-against-journalists https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/genocide-prosecution-network-39th-meeting.jpg camera display The 39th meeting of theEuropean Network for investigation and prosecution of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes(Genocide Prosecution Network) took place from 22 to 23 April 2026. Hosted at Eurojust under the chairmanship of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, the two-day meeting brought together around 150 participants in person, including representatives from national investigative and prosecutorial authorities, international accountability mechanisms and civil society. The meeting focused on how attacks against journalists in situations of armed conflict can be investigated and prosecuted as core international crimes.Key discussions centred on understanding the realities faced by journalists on the ground, particularly as attacks have become more frequent in recent conflicts; examining when such attacks may constitute core international crimes under international humanitarian law; and exploring the use of journalistic material as evidence in criminal proceedings. Representatives from France, Ukraine, the Netherlands and Sweden also shared best practices and… Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 9c190b73-df64-4ae2-9e6d-9af6fea7d527 Genocide Prosecution Network https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/inter-regional-workshop-admissibility-encrypted-evidence-brings-together-prosecutors-and-law https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/wb-group.jpg Group picture The inter-regional workshop Handling admissibility of evidence obtained from encrypted networks: operational experience, prosecutorial strategies and evolving jurisprudence in the EU, Western Balkans and countries of the Eastern Partnership was organised by Eurojust through its Western Balkans Criminal Justice (WBCJ) Project, jointly with the WB PACT II and TOPCOP projects at CEPOL in partnership with Europol. The event brought together prosecutors and law enforcement representatives from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia, as well as Armenia, Azerbaijan, Moldova and Ukraine, alongside representatives from EU Member States, Eurojust National Members and experts from Eurojust and Europol.The first day focused on plenary sessions and case presentations. Europol provided an overview of its Operational Taskforce LIMIT and its role in facilitating analytical and operational cooperation to extract encrypted data and support investigations. Eurojust and the… Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 83672f84-1508-4c8c-b6a9-bf6567d695f1 Third countries WB CRIM JUST https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/strengthening-fight-against-organised-drug-trafficking-ejocns-3rd-plenary-meeting https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/ejocn-s-3rd-plenary-meeting.jpg EJOCN’s 3rd Plenary Meeting group picture The European Judicial Network on Organised Crime (EJOCN) held its third Plenary Meeting on 16-17 April under the auspices of the Cypriot Presidency. Network members gathered to discuss recent developments and strengthen professional cooperation in addressing organised crime and related drug trafficking. The meeting also welcomed Latin American prosecutors as guest participants, highlighting the importance of international collaboration. Discussions focused on cooperation with Latin American jurisdictions within the framework of EMPACT Operational Action 2.8 (Operational Action Plan CCH) on strengthening operational cooperation in relation to drug trafficking between EU and Latin American judicial authorities, as well as case presentations on international drug trafficking investigations, underground banking and crime as a service.The agenda featured thematic deep dives the new French… Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 6e6d24c4-4acb-4edf-baff-855a13dacf52 Organised crime EJOCN https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/main-suspect-swedish-bank-scam-extradited-united-states https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/plane-landing.png Plane landing or taking off Eurojust has coordinated the extradition of the alleged main perpetrator of a large-scale fraud scheme from the United States. The suspect has been detained in the United States since the end of 2024. He is suspected of defrauding victims up to EUR 6 million. Judicial cooperation was key to ensure the suspect is now on Swedish soil and will be further questioned by Swedish prosecutors. Constant cooperation between Swedish and US authorities through coordination by Eurojust, made it possible for the authorities to share valuable information needed during the investigation and plan for an action day in November 2024 where the main perpetrator and two of his accomplices were arrested in the United States and Sweden. After the action day, cooperation continued to get the main suspect extradited. The extradition matter in the United States was handled by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of… Sat, 11 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 70602ea8-20ca-4707-a01e-7eff696e9efd Fraud Sweden USA https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/authorities-albania-and-attorney-generals-office-colombia-set-two-joint-investigation-teams https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/albania-colombia-jit.png Handshake in front of Colombian and Albanian flags On 8 and 9 April 2026, the authorities of Albania and the Attorney General’s Office of Colombia set up two joint investigation teams (JITs) with the support of Eurojust. The JITs aim to facilitate investigations and prosecutions in cases involving the trafficking of human beings from Latin America to Europe for the purpose of sexual exploitation. The two JITs were signed at Eurojust alongside two coordination meetings, which enabled the participating authorities to exchange information, identify investigative priorities and discuss coordinated judicial measures to address the cross-border nature of the criminal networks involved.This is the first time that Albania and the Attorney General’s Office of Colombia have established joint investigation teams together, marking an important step in strengthening interregional cooperation between Latin America and the Western Balkans. It also reflects Eurojust's continued efforts to enhance… Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 65602b2b-28c6-45ab-a8e5-32de7fcae4ca Joint investigation teams Third countries WB CRIM JUST Albania https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/authorities-target-criminal-network-smuggling-migrants-vietnam https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-trucks-on-road.jpg trucks on road A transnational criminal network that allegedly smuggled over 1 000 migrants from Vietnam into the United Kingdom has been taken down by Belgian, French and UK authorities, with the support of Eurojust and Europol. During an action day in the early morning of 30 March, 16 suspects were arrested in France and 3 in the United Kingdom. During the investigation, authorities discovered that the criminal network generated illicit profits of more than EUR 1.6 million through its migrant smuggling operation. Migrants were transported in lorries travelling from ports in northern France to the United Kingdom. In some cases, small boats were used to cross the English Channel. Migrants were asked to pay up to EUR50000 to reach their destination.The criminal network organised more than 200 transports from France to the United Kingdom, smuggling over 1000 migrants and generating an estimated turnover of… Fri, 03 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 27cd1158-5c4c-4a09-9679-257cc700a235 Migrant smuggling Organised crime Joint investigation teams Seizure Belgium France Europol United Kingdom https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/precious-historic-art-recovered-dutch-and-romanian-authorities https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/romanian-art-theft-web.jpg Precious historic art recovered by Dutch and Romanian authorities After intense cooperation, authorities successfully recovered three pieces of precious historic Romanian art that were stolen from the Dutch Drents Museum. A joint investigation team, set up at Eurojust shortly after the theft, allowed close cooperation that led to the recovery of the valuable pieces after an investigation spanning over a year. The four pieces of major Romanian cultural heritage, including the historic golden crown of Coţofeneşti, were stolen from the Dutch museum on 25 January 2025. To gain access, the perpetrators used massive force and explosives to steal the crown and three ancient golden bracelets. Soon after the theft, three suspects were arrested in the Netherlands, but the art was not found. Investigations continued to retrieve the valuable cultural heritage.Immediately after the theft, a joint investigation team was set up to enable cooperation between Dutch and Romanian authorities. This made it possible… Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0200 cd48ebb9-033e-47ae-a576-c52bf34b77e6 Art theft Netherlands Romania https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/global-actions-hit-cocaine-traffickers-brazil https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-drugs-fr-pt-br-case.png cargo ship The first ever joint investigation team (JIT) between French and Brazilian authorities, supported and funded by Eurojust, has dealt a significant blow to an international drug trafficking network. Following the discovery of 124 kg of cocaine on a cargo ship arriving at a port in France from Brazil, authorities from both countries worked together through a JIT to arrest key members of the network. Cooperation through the Eurojust-funded JIT led to the identification of the international criminal network behind the shipment of cocaine. The JIT framework enabled the authorities to exchange information and evidence in real time and carry out joint operations.On 10 March, the authorities took action against the criminal network operating in the port of Santos in Brazil. Two suspects were arrested and eight searches were carried out in Santos and Valinhos, resulting in the seizure of vehicles, weapons and watches. One of the suspects has been heard as a witness. Eurojust also… Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0200 44ba20e9-7d08-4199-977a-ee8d934720ae Drug trafficking Organised crime JIT funding Joint investigation teams France Portugal Third countries https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/financial-crime-investigation-culminates-arrests-and-frozen-assets-high-value https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-collage-fraud-case-0.png goods money car police seizure Two individuals suspected of committing serious economic and financial crimes resulting in losses amounting to tens of millions of euros have been arrested during an international operation coordinated from Eurojust. Over 400 investigators worked together across six countries to search 49 properties and gather essential evidence to continue the investigations. The individuals are under investigation for allegations of bankruptcy fraud, embezzlement and the breach of accounting obligations. The main suspect, a real estate developer in the Düsseldorf area, et al., allegedly moved large amounts of his private assets to other individuals’ accounts before filing for insolvency proceedings. By hiding these assets, he was able to defraud millions of euros. On 26 March, a coordinated operation took place across six countries. With coordination from the Eurojust headquarters, over 49 properties were searched in Germany, Austria, Luxembourg, the Netherlands… Fri, 27 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100 0ae2c5c2-d3b2-4cb2-8b23-ec5d0dde7b88 Fraud Search Seizure Austria Germany Luxembourg Netherlands Spain Switzerland https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/arrests-take-down-violent-criminal-network-trafficking-hundreds-kilograms-cocaine-scotland https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-scotland-drugs-case.png drugs on table and scale A joint action day coordinated from Eurojust’s headquarters has led to the arrest of 13 suspects from a Scottish organised crime group. The group is suspected of running a prolific criminal network involved in the transport of large quantities of drugs, including hundreds of kilograms of cocaine, into Scotland. Thanks to close cooperation by UK and Spanish authorities, coordinated by Eurojust, five suspects were arrested in Spain and a further eight in the United Kingdom. The organised criminal network, believed to be operating in both Scotland and Spain, is known to use violence to protect its interests. It is also suspected of international drug trafficking, maintaining control over parts of the United Kingdom with senior figures operating from Spain and the United Arab Emirates. From the profits of the drug trafficking, an international money laundering network was established involving several million euros feeding back into their criminal enterprise.Judicial cooperation between the national authorities began in May 2024 at Eurojust, with the support… Fri, 27 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100 650d99e0-b6c3-4a81-a3b2-47c720013edd Drug trafficking Money laundering Organised crime Spain Europol United Kingdom https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/international-operation-hits-supply-chain-migrant-smugglers https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-25032026.png Police Belgian, German and UK authorities continue to work together to disrupt migrant smuggling networks operating along the English Channel. A joint investigation team, set up at Eurojust and supported by Europol, focused on targeting the smuggling supply chain. During an international operation, four individuals suspected of organising the delivery of nautical equipment were arrested. The investigation, launched in 2025, targeted a criminal network supplying equipment for dangerous crossings of the English Channel using small inflatable boats. The equipment was manufactured in Asia and imported into Germany from Türkiye via sea and land routes. After the equipment arrived in Germany, it was assembled into packages, worth over EUR 10 000 on the black market. The packages contained items such as inflatable boats, engines, pumps, petrol jerry cans and tyre inner tubes that would be used as makeshift lifejackets, dangerous buoyance aids or other purposes.The packages were then… Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100 41560767-4b54-4e7a-9277-1e382a63317e Migrant smuggling European Arrest Warrant Belgium Germany Europol United Kingdom https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/joint-investigation-team-continues-work-added-focus-illegal-transfer-ukrainian-children https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-ua-jits-signature.jpg round table meeting The joint investigation team (JIT) established at Eurojust to investigate core international crimes committed in Ukraine has had its mandate extended by two years. Authorities from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Ukraine, together with partners Eurojust, Europol and the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC-OTP), will now place additional focus on the illegal transfer of Ukrainian children and their deportation to Russia and Belarus. These collaborative efforts have been key to national investigations and have already led to a trial in Ukraine and the identification of suspects in Lithuania. The JIT was set up in 2022 shortly after Russia’s full-scale invasion and now consists of Estonian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Romanian, Slovakian and Ukrainian authorities, with the participation of Eurojust, Europol and the ICC-OTP. Since the start of the JIT, various core international crimes have been investigated, including the crime of genocide and crimes committed at detention sites. Thanks to the JIT’s flexible framework, authorities have been able to respond quickly to emerging crimes, coming together to exchange information and share best practices.Judicial cooperation through the… Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100 1fbcf6af-bbfc-47fe-95f2-870aedc819f5 Core international crimes Crimes against children Joint investigation teams Ukraine conflict Estonia Latvia Lithuania Poland Romania Slovakia Ukraine https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/eurojust-marks-20th-consultative-forum-europes-top-prosecutors-shape-future-judicial https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/cons-forum.jpg 20th Consultative Forum Prosecutors General and Directors of Public Prosecutions of the EU Member States gathered at Eurojust’s headquarters in The Hague for the 20th annual Consultative Forum. Bringing together the EU’s most senior prosecution authorities, the Forum serves as a key platform for addressing shared challenges in an increasingly complex and globalised criminal landscape, including organised crime networks and emerging hybrid threats. This 20th edition of the Forum places a strong focus on the future: how Europe’s prosecutors and Eurojust can evolve together to stay ahead of crime. At the centre of discussions is the development of Eurojust’s Vision 2035, an ambitious initiative that will define the agency’s strategic direction for the next decade. National prosecution services are playing a central role in shaping this vision, ensuring that Eurojust continues to respond to operational needs on the ground while remaining a trusted hub for judicial cooperation.Participants are also contributing to a crucial debate on the future legal framework of Eurojust. Following the first evaluation of the Eurojust regulation, the European Commission is preparing an impact assessment… Thu, 19 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100 18304cb2-2268-4e75-8426-068368637ba5 https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/criminal-network-trafficking-steroids-through-postal-service-uncovered https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-illegal-substances-case-cz-pl.png pills and syringes A joint investigation team consisting of Polish and Czech authorities, coordinated by Eurojust has been crucial in exposing the operation of a criminal network illegally distributing substances across the EU with anabolic and other hormonal effects. The international criminal group operating in Austria and the Czech Republic were illegally distributing various substances using postal shipments and routes. Thanks to the coordination of authorities, in June 2025, 16 house searches and searches of other premises carried out across the Czech Republic led to the discovery of 60 000 commercial packages of anabolic steroids. 10 suspects were detained and property worth over EUR 150 000 was confiscated. In February of this year an additional 4 suspects were detained. It is estimated that the criminal network generated over… Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100 bb3ddf99-52e3-46b4-b224-5791eefdc240 Organised crime Coordination meeting European Investigation Order Joint investigation teams Czech Republic Poland Europol https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/servers-used-cybercrime-around-world-taken-down https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/generic-image.png generic image A website allegedly offering IP proxy services for cybercriminals in 102 countries has been targeted by authorities from eight countries. After identifying numerous victims of the malware used to gain access to IP addresses for the proxy service, authorities from France, Austria, the Netherlands and the United States started working together with coordination by Eurojust and Europol to take action against the service. The same people administering the proxy service are also suspected of hosting a payment platform for the proxy service. The website offered a paid IP proxy service, allowing its customers to hide their real IP addresses by giving them access to existing IP addresses around the world. Access to the affected IP addresses was made possible by infecting modems worldwide, belonging to individuals or organisations, with malware. After infection, the modems’ owners would not be aware that their IP addresses were being used for illegitimate activities. The service has compromised 369 000 routers and other devices across 163 countries and had a customer base of approximately 124 000 users.To gain access to the proxy… Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100 2a27e31a-aad1-4e19-ae63-4fa02f5cd286 Cybercrime Austria Bulgaria France Germany Hungary Netherlands Romania Europol USA https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/judicial-cooperation-key-arresting-leaders-online-fraud-group https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/phishing-emails.png Phishing emails A criminal group suspected of running an online fraud scheme in Germany has been dismantled following judicial cooperation coordinated by Eurojust. The group is suspected of having defrauded victims of around EUR 1 million. As the alleged leader of the group was based in France, judicial cooperation was essential to stop the criminal group’s activities. During an action day on 10 March, German and French authorities worked together to arrest three suspects. After an arrest warrant was issued, the main suspect, who was located in France, was brought before a judge and is now in custody, pending the forthcoming decision of the Chamber of Instruction, which will decide on his surrender to the German authorities. As a result of searches that took place in both countries during the action day, assets including cryptocurrencies and jewellery were seized. A European Investigation Order that was coordinated through Eurojust enabled searches in… Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100 0ac454d5-570b-4296-b1f0-a4aef7ad219b Cybercrime Fraud France Germany https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/joint-investigation-team-disrupts-group-using-self-igniting-parcels-terrorist-attacks https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-self-igniting-parcels-case.png parcels A joint investigation team of German, Lithuanian, Dutch, Polish and UK authorities, set up under the coordination of Eurojust has been crucial in exposing the operation behind several attacks carried out across Europe involving self-igniting parcels. Authorities joined forces when several parcels ignited in Germany, Poland and the United Kingdom, causing damages for the postal services transporting the packages. The cooperative efforts led to the identification of 22 suspects in Lithuania and Poland who are suspected of having been working on behalf of themilitary-intelligence service of the Russian Federation. Two cases have now been sent to courts in Lithuania and Poland, with trials expected to happen later in the year. In July 2024, four parcels were sent from Lithuania to addresses in the United Kingdom and Poland. One of the parcels, that was sent through a sorting centre in Germany, caught fire at Leipzig airport, shortly before it was loaded onto an aircraft. Another parcel caught fire while in a warehouse in the UK. In Poland, one package caught fire in a truck. The second parcel was seized by authorities while it was still intact, enabling the analysis of the device and its damage potential. The investigation also identified two ‘test packages’ that had been sent to the United States and Canada, as… Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100 302ffbb8-11fe-41c2-aae0-46f29290d79c Terrorism Joint investigation teams Germany Lithuania Netherlands Poland Europol United Kingdom https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/seized-phones-small-swedish-town-expose-major-international-criminal-network https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-operation-candy.png smartphone and drugs Actions taken by authorities around the globe and coordinated by Eurojust and Europol led to the arrests of 15 suspects and the dismantling of a sophisticated drug trafficking operation. The actions started after Swedish authorities seized two phones in a small town. After analysing the data they contained, an international criminal network suspected trafficking large amounts of drugs was discovered and authorities from four countries worked together to take serious action against the large network, which was active around the world. The local investigation quickly escalated after forensic analysis revealed that the phones seized had international contacts and were used to coordinate operations far beyond Sweden.The data analysed showed that it was not just one criminal group responsible for a drug trafficking and money laundering operation, but a network of several criminal groups connected through a web of companies. The members of the network in Thailand ran a large-scale online drug distribution business targeting customers in the Nordics. In Sweden, members were managing domestic drug distribution and… Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100 3bef62ba-2596-4e11-bd04-1d13313191ee Drug trafficking Money laundering Organised crime European Arrest Warrant European Investigation Order Freezing Spain Sweden https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/cocaine-trafficking-network-exposed-following-financial-trail https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-drugs-money-laundering-case-it-fr-ch.png police investigation A high-value target (HVT) at the heart of a major cocaine trafficking operation has been arrested, along with six other suspects. The arrests followed an investigation by French, Italian and Swiss authorities, coordinated by Eurojust and Europol. By tracing a financial trail, authorities uncovered a money laundering network that was laundering the illicit proceeds of a criminal group trafficking cocaine from South America into Europe. Authorities started investigating suspicious financial movements, which revealed a sophisticated money laundering operation involving members of the Camorra and the ‘Ndrangheta. The group behind the service used shell companies, false invoicing and luxury investments to launder millions of euros in cocaine profits.The money laundering is suspected to be directly linked to a large-scale cocaine trafficking operation moving drugs from South America to Europe. The criminal network allegedly shipped large quantities of cocaine through Europe’s main ports. A seizure by the Belgian customs in late… Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 6d35d6ba-19d1-4e93-b743-1f81aa679bc5 Drug trafficking Money laundering Organised crime Joint action day European Investigation Order Joint investigation teams Seizure France Italy Europol Switzerland https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/ejn-launches-fiches-belges-bosnia-and-herzegovina-and-kosovo-support-wbcj-project https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/wbcj-logo.png WBCJ logo The European Judicial Network (EJN) has launched the EJN Fiches Belges for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo*, which are now available on the EJN website. These are the final two fiches covering the Western Balkans, now fully accessible online thanks to the support of the Western Balkans Criminal Justice (WBCJ) Project, thereby completing the Network’s coverage of the region. The tool outlines the applicability of investigative measures that may be requested through Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA), as well as any additional national procedural requirements for the execution of such requests. The newly published fiches provide comprehensive and practical information on the legal systems and criminal procedures of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo*.The integration of information on the legal systems of the Western Balkans into the EJN website is a key priority for EJN, aimed at facilitating more effective and streamlined judicial cooperation with EU Member States.The… Wed, 25 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 bcb0f0a1-6ce8-47fd-b92e-12109916cfa1 WB CRIM JUST https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/four-years-full-scale-invasion-continuing-road-accountability-ukraine https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/infocus-anniversary-ua-war.jpg man holding no war sign Eurojust, together with authorities from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Ukraine has remained steadfast in their commitment to accountability to the crimes committed in Ukraine during the full-scale invasion. Following a years-long investigation, the first charges and notifications of suspicions have now been presented and trial proceedings have started in Ukraine. In the meantime, the work of the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine (ICPA) continues, in support of the future Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression. Additional evidence is being added to the Core International Crimes Evidence Database (CICED) and Eurojust is providing continuous legal and analytical support for national investigations. Since the outbreak of the war, Eurojust has been at the forefront of supporting judicialaccountability efforts against Russian crimes. Just three weeks following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022,Eurojust helped establish a joint investigation team(JIT) that now consists of Ukraine, six EU Member States, and the participation of the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC-OTP), Eurojust and Europol. The JIT’s work is supported by the ICPA, a unique judicial hub where prosecutors and investigators from different countries work together… Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 9ff5df0b-d97d-4a01-b5e0-1d7e8f349447 Core international crimes Evidence Joint investigation teams Ukraine conflict https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/11-arrests-during-actions-against-fraudulent-call-centre https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/arrest-taking-place.jpg Picture taken during arrest International cooperation between Latvian, Lithuanian and Ukrainian authorities, coordinated by Eurojust, resulted in the takedown of a fraudulent call centre operating across three offices. The call centre was set up to defraud funds from citizens across Europe. Initial investigations identified victims in Latvia and Lithuania who lost over EUR 160 000, but it is expected that more victims fell for the fake investment platform. The call centre was set up in Dnipro and used a well-established scheme. The criminal group lured their victims in with a fake investment scheme for cryptocurrency where they promised large profits. To defraud their victims even more, the criminal group would ask for funds for legal support to return lost assets. The call centre employees were able to gain access to their victims’ funds using remote access software and then succeeded to transfer money into the criminal group’s bank accounts and cryptocurrency wallets.After at least nine victims came forward in Latvia and Lithuania, a joint… Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 d7ea9340-b157-4e22-a32c-dd9d2f6bdbf4 Fraud Latvia Lithuania Ukraine https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/47th-regular-meeting-european-judicial-network-discusses-key-developments-judicial-cooperation https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/20260212-47th-ejn-group-picture-1.jpg Group picture The 47th Regular Meeting of theEuropean Judicial Network (EJN) took place on 11-12 February 2026 in The Hague, bringing together EJN Contact Points from EU Member States, EU candidate countries and potential candidates, as well as from EJN associated countries. The EJN Regular Meeting is a plenary meeting held once a year in The Hague, as provided for in Article 6 of Council Decision 2008/976/JHA of 16 December 2008 on the European Judicial Network. Its purpose is to discuss key developments in judicial cooperation in criminal matters and the involvement of the EJN in this area.Over the two days, participants exchanged on updates from EU Member States and partner countries, providing an overview of recent developments relevant to judicial cooperation in criminal matters. These exchanges allowed Contact Points to share information on current issues… Wed, 18 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 35a5e47d-3080-4d36-acf6-abebab7968b1 EJN https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/eurojust-coordinates-takedown-international-drug-trafficking-group https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-it-es-drugs-case.png police finding marijuana A transnational operation in Italy and Spain, coordinated by Eurojust and Europol, has led to the arrest of 12 people suspected of leading a drug trafficking group producing and distributing marijuana and hashish. Previous actions by both authorities had already led to the arrest of 13 people and the seizure of over 900 kilograms of drugs. The group is allegedly led by an Italian person who, having moved to Barcelona, worked with a group of trusted accomplices to manage the production of marijuana in Spain and its distribution, either to third parties or for direct sale, in Italy. The group also included people working in the production plant, transporters and money collectors.To enable the transport of the marijuana and hashish to Italy, the drugs were concealed using different methods. Initially, the drugs were hidden in pallets of fruit and vegetables loaded on trucks. Afterwards, they were concealed in large sacks of animal… Tue, 17 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 bb07de7e-c95f-4980-9497-7c182ed04938 Drug trafficking Organised crime Coordination centre Joint investigation teams Seizure Italy Spain Europol https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/tri-regional-event-strengthening-judicial-cooperation-tackle-drug-trafficking-routes-west-africa-western-balkans-eu-ports https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/wb-crim-just-group-picture-below1.jpg Group picture A tri-regional event on tackling drug trafficking routes via West Africa, the Western Balkans and EU ports through enhanced judicial cooperation took place on 11-12 February at Eurojust. Eurojust, through its Western Balkans Criminal Justice (WBCJ) Project, jointly organised with the European Judicial Organised Crime Network (EJOCN)a tri-regional conference bringing together prosecutors from 20 jurisdictions representing the Western Balkans, EU Member States and West Africa, with the support of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), to address emerging drug trafficking routes and strengthen judicial cooperation.Representatives from Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, France, Gambia, Germany, Greece, Guinea,… Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 ac3ff949-8fd0-4350-889a-7f2d176a293d Joint investigation teams Third countries WB CRIM JUST https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/24-members-international-drug-trafficking-group-arrested https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/drug-trafficking-case.png Arrests An organised crime group suspected of trafficking drugs to Iceland from across Europe and South America has been dismantled by Lithuanian, Spanish and Icelandic authorities, in cooperation with Eurojust and Europol. It is estimated that the group made over EUR 4 million in profits from their illicit activities. A coordinated operation led to the arrest of 24 of its members across five countries. The group, based in Lithuania and Spain, is suspected of trafficking cocaine, MDMA, methamphetamine and ketamine from South America into Iceland and Lithuania. Once the drugs arrived in Iceland from Spain, the criminal group would distribute them further. They were able to move over 39 kilogrammes of cocaine, 5 100 MDMA tablets and 1 kilogramme of ketamine and methamphetamine. The illicit revenue coming from the drug trafficking was allegedly laundered through real estate and other properties in Lithuania.The network relied primarily on drug mules, usually people in vulnerable… Tue, 10 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 7c0c59e5-8fa0-45a7-bde9-1ba207c5743a Drug trafficking Organised crime Lithuania Spain Europol Iceland https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/action-against-eur-306-million-money-laundering-network https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-fr-ro-money-laundering.png money on a table Following investigations into a criminal group suspected of laundering at least EUR 306 million of illicit profits from drug trafficking and other crimes, 13 people have been arrested in France and Romania. Investigations coordinated through a joint investigation team at Eurojust revealed that the group had been operating in France and Romania between 2018 and 2024. Consisting of dozens of members operating from Romania and France, the criminal group is suspected of having laundered illicit profits from crimes such as drug trafficking. They set up a sophisticated international operation involving multiple legal entities in France, which they took over and used to channel large sums of money into their own bank accounts. The group also created a financial circuit involving the issuance of false invoices for services between legal entities, thereby reducing those companies’ taxable income.In Romania, the group invested part of its illicit profits in… Mon, 09 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 be9af091-3dbb-4269-a0fe-1825da2c44ea Drug trafficking Money laundering Organised crime Joint action day Joint investigation teams France Romania https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/1st-meeting-regional-network-investigation-and-prosecution-genocide-crimes-against-humanity https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/dakar-picture.jpg Dakar meeting The first meeting of the Regional Network for the investigation and prosecution of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in Western Africa took place on 4–5 February in Dakar, Senegal. The event brought together representatives of judicial and law enforcement authorities from the region, alongside international stakeholders and civil society organisations, to advance cooperation related to core international crimes. The establishment of the Regional Network builds on the participation of a delegation from The Gambia, Guinea and Senegal in the most recent meeting of the European Network for the investigation and prosecution of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes (Genocide Prosecution Network) in November 2025. The visit, facilitated by the National Authorities against Impunity Project, also provided an opportunity for exchanges with key international and national partners and highlighted a shared interest in reinforcing regional judicial cooperation and facilitating information exchange in… Fri, 06 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 507b1226-9b1e-4dfb-9ddd-602dd555d5c8 Genocide Prosecution Network Third countries IMPNA https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/7th-emjnet-meeting-focuses-conflict-jurisdictions-and-joint-investigations-teams-jits https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/emj-1.jpg 7th EMJNet meeting focuses on conflict of jurisdictions and Joint Investigations Teams (JITs) A EuroMed Justice Network (EMJNet) meeting was held on 3-4 February at Eurojust, in The Hague, bringing together 33 criminal justice practitioners from six South Partner Countries (SPCs) – Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco and Palestine* – and 11 EU Member States participating in the EuroMed Justice project. The meeting addressed the topics of conflict of jurisdiction and Joint Investigation Teams (JITs). During the meeting, Eurojust’s Casework Unit and the JITs Network Secretariat presented the support Eurojust can provide in the field of judicial cooperation, including in relation to parallel investigations, conflict of jurisdiction and JITs. Participants presented a number of cases concerning conflict of jurisdiction and JITs, including situations in which non-EU Member States conducted parallel investigations or supported a JIT without being a formal member.Drawing on their own experience, participants discussed the challenges, benefits and suitability of JITs and shared best practices.… Thu, 05 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 7f5d4edf-bf0b-4bba-86d8-cbd1589dc6ee Joint investigation teams EuroMed Justice https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/successful-operation-against-illegal-streaming-services-millions-users-worldwide https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/computer-hardware-servers-detail.png Generic image Actions by authorities from Italy, Romania, Spain, the United Kingdom, Canada, Kosovo* and South Korea, together with Eurojust and Europol, have led to the seizure of multiple illegal streaming services. Following another successful international operation in 2024, authorities dismantled an extensive infrastructure that offered live and on-demand programming protected by broadcasting rights to millions of users worldwide. Investigations into the illegal services started after large volumes of data were seized during the international operation Taken Down, supported by Eurojust. By analysing the data, traffic and networks used by the illegal streaming services and by tracking cryptocurrency transactions, an international criminal group identified as being behind the operation.The 31 suspected members of the group are believed to have engaged in the unauthorised distribution of pay-TV content, illegal access to IT systems, computer fraud and money laundering. As their profits grew, the group expanded its… Tue, 03 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 2b216aa3-7dd9-4114-a7d1-5c3db6d37ad7 Intellectual property crimes Organised crime Seizure Italy Romania Spain Europol United Kingdom https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/arrests-made-attempted-sabotage-against-navy-ships https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/prikkeldraad.png prikkeldraad Cooperation between German, Greek and Romanian authorities under coordination by Eurojust, has led to the arrest of two individuals who are suspected of attempted sabotage against German defence equipment. The arrest of the Romanian and Greek suspects took place in Germany and Greece today. The two suspects, who work at the Port of Hamburg, are suspected to have attempted acts of sabotage in 2025. This includes dumping more than 20 kilogrammes of abrasive gravel into the engine block of German navy ships, puncturing the fresh water supply lines, removing fuel tank caps and the deactivation of electronic safety switches.If gone undetected, the acts would have caused major damage to the ships and delayed their departure, endangering the operations of the German Navy.Thanks to the coordination from Eurojust, the German, Greek and Romanian authorities worked together in preparation… Tue, 03 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0100 04d94b0e-7807-46ce-a039-ce32e7977bdb Germany Greece Romania https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/terrorist-group-responsible-arson-attacks-across-europe-taken-court https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/arsonist-starting-fire-infocus.jpg arsonist A terrorist group suspected of carrying out several arson attacks in the European Union on behalf of a foreign intelligence service is to be taken to court. The group attempted to set fire to commercial, transport and factory facilities in the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Poland and Romania. A joint investigation team set up at Eurojust and initiated by Romania identified the alleged perpetrators and brought them to court. Following trials in Romania and the Czech Republic, two individuals have been convicted. In Lithuania, the trial of six suspects is expected to start later this year. Authorities from the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Poland and Romania found links between attempted and actual arson attacks in their respective countries. In Romania, a suspect was arrested in July 2024 after he was caught taking photos of possible locations to set on fire. In the Czech Republic, investigations revealed that a suspect had set fire to buses in Prague by spraying oil and pouring petrol over them before setting fire to the substances. He also scouted other locations for follow-up attacks. In Lithuania, the suspects targeted a factory producing materials for the Armed Forces of… Tue, 27 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0100 f899fb06-710a-46d8-85d9-97ee802ba6c1 Ne bis in idem Czech Republic Lithuania Poland Romania Europol https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/romanian-criminal-network-trafficking-women-united-kingdom-rolled-up https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-ro-uk-thb-case.png Distressed woman During a coordinated action day in Romania and the United Kingdom, a criminal network suspected of trafficking vulnerable women for sexual exploitation was dismantled. The cooperation between the authorities and Eurojust led to the arrest of 4 people and the seizure of several luxury cars and properties. Investigations into the network began in November 2022 when police officers noticed a group of Romanian sex workers operating regularly in a London car park. While the Romanian women initially did not allude to sexual exploitation, the authorities discovered that the same Romanian national had paid for their flights in and out of the United Kingdom. It is suspected that the women were recruited in Candesti, Romania, brought to various addresses around the United Kingdom, where they were forced into street prostitution in London.To uncover the network, a joint investigation team was… Mon, 12 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0100 949eee37-fab8-422e-8184-5863386f4b88 Organised crime Trafficking in human beings Romania United Kingdom https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/icpa-receives-eur-5-million-continue-investigations-crime-aggression-against-ukraine https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-icpa-extension.jpg Flags of EU and UA The International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine (ICPA), hosted at Eurojust, has received EUR 5 million from the European Commission to continue supporting the national investigations into the crime of aggression related to the war in Ukraine. The continuation of the ICPA will ensure that the foundation is laid for the upcoming Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. TheICPA, founded in July 2023, is a unique judicial hub embedded in Eurojust to support national investigations into the crime of aggression related to the war in Ukraine. Thanks to the ICPA, independent prosecutors from Ukraine, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland and Romania can work closely together. The hub enables prosecutors to exchange information and evidence and agree on a common investigative and prosecutorial strategy.By receiving EUR 5 million from the European Commission, the ICPA will now be able to continue its work until December 2026. During ameeting in… Tue, 23 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0100 2bd2bbbe-7dda-4fb1-bfe8-acd70f9048dc Core international crimes Joint investigation teams Ukraine conflict Ukraine https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/eurojusts-cross-border-investigations-2025-continued-fight-organised-crime https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-image-casework-highlights.png lady justice In 2025, the EU’s judicial cooperation hub worked together with national authorities from all over the globe to solve complex cross-border investigation and take action against organised criminal networks harming our societies every day. From drug trafficking networks, to large-scale credit card fraud and art trafficking, Eurojust was at the heart of combatting serious organised crime in 2025. Some highlights of our 2025 casework:Criminal network trafficking drugs throughout Europe since 2019 dismantledEurojust supported Slovak, Hungarian, German and Spanish authorities to arrest 22 members of a criminal network suspected of importing drugs from outside the European Union into Europe. The well-organised hierarchical structure of the network made it possible for the group to traffic drugs worth EUR 175 million. Eurojust coordinated the action day from their premise in The Hague and assisted the execution of European Arrest Warrants and European Investigation Orders. During the… Tue, 23 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0100 4ff791e0-8132-422c-a670-51a1f77efd0b Organised crime Criminal investigation https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/eurojust-supports-seizure-mafia-assets-worth-eur-40-million https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-mafia-seizures-case.png house model and money Italian and Romanian authorities have seized assets worth more than EUR40million from an individual suspected of being affiliated with mafia families. Eurojust ensured that the freezing happened simultaneously in both countries. Investigations into the Italian suspect, a former crown witness, exposed his ties to the Santapaola-Ercolano family and the Cappello Bonaccorsi clan. He was allegedly involved in laundering his own and mafia assets through assets purchased in his own name and in the names of his relatives. Betting and online gaming licences and shops in the provinces of Catania and Syracuse, Italy, as well as cryptocurrency, were used to launder significant amounts of illegal profits.Some of the assets, including real estate and cars, were purchased in Romania. As a result, Italian and Romanian… Wed, 17 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0100 d61f3965-a89d-4c31-a903-662808e43a49 Organised crime Seizure Italy Romania https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/fraudulent-call-centres-ukraine-rolled https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-ukraine-fraud-case.png police in action Authorities from the Czech Republic, Latvia, Lithuania and Ukraine with the support of Eurojust took action against a criminal network operating call centres in Dnipro, Ivano-Frankivsk and Kyiv, Ukraine that scammed victims across Europe. The criminal group established a professional organisation with employees who received a percentage of the proceeds for each completed scam. The estimated damage to more than 400 known victims is over EUR10million. The fraudsters used various scams, such as posing as police officers to withdraw money using their victims’ cards and details, or pretending that their victims’ bank accounts had been hacked. They convinced their victims to transfer large sums of money from their ‘compromised’ bank accounts to ‘safe’ bank accounts controlled by the network. They also lured victims into downloading remote access software and entering their banking details, enabling the criminal group to access and control the victims’ bank accounts.The criminal network recruited their employees from the Czech Republic,… Tue, 16 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0100 c1e3da15-bb89-4bd8-9721-29c40ee4962e Fraud Organised crime Joint investigation teams Seizure Czech Republic Latvia Lithuania Ukraine https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/second-edition-wbcj-winter-academy-prepares-next-generation-western-balkans-prosecutors-and https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/athens-meeting-participants.jpg Meeting participants in Athens The Western Balkans Criminal Justice Project (WBCJ), with the support of the JITs Network Secretariat at Eurojust, successfully held the second edition of the Winter Academy on Judicial Cooperation in Cross-Border Organised Crime from 9 to 12 December 2025 at the European Public Law Organization Headquarters in Athens, Greece. This annual training programme is designed for entry-level prosecutors and judges from the Western Balkans, focusing this year on money laundering and asset recovery. After the first edition on cybercrime, online fraud and e-evidence in 2024, this year’s Winter Academy focused on another topic of particular relevance to international cooperation and to the Western Balkan region: money laundering and asset recovery.Over four days, participants engaged with presentations by various EU experts and participated in interactive sessions, practical exercises, and simulations aimed at strengthening their understanding of complex judicial cooperation mechanisms.The training featured expert speakers and trainers from across Europe, including public prosecutors, the… Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0100 862419a9-b10e-4101-b09a-32a13db2ed1b Cybercrime Electronic evidence Greece JITs Network WB CRIM JUST North Macedonia https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/news/joint-investigation-team-eurojust-brings-juvenile-murder-suspects-court https://www.eurojust.europa.eu/sites/default/files/assets/images/web-it-sl-murder-case.png hands in handcuffs A three-year, complex cross-border investigation into the murder of a 26-year-old man has been concluded by a joint investigation team (JIT) of Italian and Slovenian authorities coordinated by Eurojust. Two Italian suspects, who were minors at the time of the murder, are facing criminal proceedings after DNA analysis in both countries confirmed a match between the biological traces and the two individuals. On 11 January 2022, a passer-by discovered a lifeless body in a border area between Gorizia, Italy and Nova Gorica, Slovenia. The passer-by alerted Italian emergency services, and as the body was found a few metres beyond the Slovenian border, Slovenian authorities were immediately involved. Initial investigations revealed that the death had occurred the previous evening and was caused by multiple stab wounds. In the meantime, Italian and Slovenian authorities started focusing their investigation on two Italian juvenile suspects with no prior criminal records.As authorities initiated a… Thu, 11 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0100 eb825e58-03e8-4108-9c09-206c6bb4ce65 Crimes against life, limb and personal freedom Joint investigation teams Italy Slovenia