German authorities dismantle nationwide money laundering network

German authorities have dismantled a suspected organized crime network operating under a “money laundering as a service” model. Following a coordinated operation involving approximately 300 law enforcement and customs officers, four individuals were arrested across several German states, including Baden-Württemberg, North Rhine-Westphalia, Hamburg, and Bremen.

The primary suspect, a 72-year-old woman from the Stuttgart area, is accused of leading the nationwide network and utilizing multiple aliases. Investigators allege the group provided criminal services to third parties, including money laundering, drug smuggling logistics, and the facilitation of illegal undeclared work through fraudulent invoicing.

The network reportedly utilized a complex system of domestic and international bank accounts and shell companies to funnel hundreds of thousands of euros derived from fraud. During searches of more than 30 locations, authorities seized evidence including approximately 75,000 euros in cash and two firearms.