Italian authorities seize 1,300 tonnes of counterfeit lubricating oil in Bari operation

The Guardia di Finanza in Bari uncovered a large‑scale fraud involving low‑quality lubricating oil that was marketed as a branded product. The scheme bought oil in Campania, stored it in a depot in Altamura and then distributed it across the market, generating illicit profits of over €1 million.

Investigators seized more than 1,300 tonnes of the counterfeit oil and issued preliminary investigation notices against fifteen individuals. Earlier steps of the probe had identified five suspects and linked ten additional transporters and buyers to the network. The case is being pursued by the Provincial Command of Bari’s Economic‑Financial Police unit and will be forwarded to the public prosecutor for further action.