EU fraud probe: Former top diplomat Mogherini detained in police raid

Brussels is reeling today after news broke that Federica Mogherini, the former EU High Representative, was detained as part of a major fraud investigation. It’s a stunning development, considering Mogherini’s prominent role on the world stage for so many years. You just don't expect to see names like hers associated with something like this.

EU fraud probe: Former top diplomat Mogherini deta...

Belgian police, acting on behalf of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), swooped in early Tuesday morning, conducting raids at the College of Europe, the European External Action Service (EEAS), and several private residences. Mogherini was reportedly one of three individuals taken into custody. I mean, imagine the scene – police vans pulling up, investigators in suits – it’s something you’d expect in a spy thriller, not in the heart of the European Union.

The other two individuals detained are reportedly Stefano Sannino, currently a Director General at the European Commission, and another, unnamed manager at the College of Europe. Sannino, for those who don't immediately recognize the name, is a heavy hitter in EU circles; he previously served as the Secretary General of the EEAS. This definitely isn't some minor administrative snafu; this is reaching the highest echelons of the EU bureaucracy.

At the heart of the investigation is the European Union Diplomatic Academy, a prestigious nine-month training program for aspiring diplomats. The College of Europe won the tender for this project between 2021 and 2022. The EPPO is investigating potential procurement fraud, corruption, conflict of interest, and violation of professional secrecy related to the awarding and management of this tender. It’s a laundry list of serious accusations, and if proven true, it could have significant ramifications for the EU’s reputation and credibility.

The investigation was triggered by initial reports to the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), which is now assisting the EPPO. It’s worth remembering that the EPPO was established precisely to tackle this kind of cross-border fraud affecting EU funds. It’s a relatively new body, so this high-profile case could be seen as a test of its effectiveness and independence. Will they be able to uncover the truth, regardless of who is implicated? That's the question on everyone's mind here.

While the EPPO has remained tight-lipped about the specifics, they’ve stated that the investigation is ongoing to "clarify the facts and assess whether any criminal offences have occurred." In the meantime, the detention of such a prominent figure as Mogherini sends shockwaves throughout the European Union. We’ll be following this story closely as it develops, providing updates as they become available.