Spanish National Police have arrested a lawyer suspected of bribing high-level officials in Equatorial Guinea. The investigation, supported by Europol, revealed that the lawyer transferred approximately €4.5 million through his project development company in an alleged attempt to secure a contract for building a fishing industry factory in the African country.
On July 2, 2024, Spanish authorities conducted two searches in Asturias, leading to the lawyer’s arrest. They seized five properties valued at €4.5 million, €30,000 in cash, and 21 bank accounts containing over €2 million.
The lawyer’s company, registered in Spain, had shown minimal commercial activity since its inception and had not completed any projects. However, between 2020 and 2022, the company reported income exceeding €4.5 million. Further investigation linked these funds to individuals close to the Equatorial Guinea government.
The payments were connected to a 2019 contract for a fishery products processing plant in Equatorial Guinea. The project, initially set for completion within two years, has not progressed as planned. The lawyer faces charges of corruption, money laundering, falsification of accounts, and forgery of documents.
Europol played a key role in the operation, providing analytical support and real-time assistance during the searches. Using the SIENA network, Spanish authorities shared initial findings with Europol, which then offered support through a Virtual Command Post at Europol’s headquarters in The Hague.
Europol’s efforts highlight the ongoing battle against corruption, which undermines rule of law, weakens institutions, and distorts economic development. For more on Europol’s role in combating corruption, see the European Financial and Economic Crime Threat Assessment 2023.
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