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German Precision Machine Maker Spinner Raided Over Alleged Sanctions Evasion

Prosecutors executed coordinated searches Wednesday in Germany and Bulgaria to investigate suspected exports of more than 20 high-precision machines to Russia under false papers

Die Staatsanwaltschaft München I ist wegen eines mutmaßlichen Verstoßes gegen Russland-Sanktionen gegen eine Werkzeugmaschinenfabrik bei München vorgegangen. Zollfahnder und Staatsanwälte durchsuchten auch Objekte in Baden-Württemberg und Bulgarien.
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Overview

  • Munich state prosecutors and customs investigators led raids on July 30 at Spinner’s headquarters in Sauerlach, sites in Baden-Württemberg, and facilities in Bulgaria.
  • The company is suspected of deliberately exporting over 20 dual-use tool machines valued at about €5.5 million in violation of EU restrictions tightened in February 2023.
  • Officials uncovered forged transport documents and flagged a February seizure of a machine shipped through Poland and Belarus to Uzbekistan before allegedly reaching a Russian affiliate.
  • Investigators have identified potential additional smuggling routes through third countries such as Turkey and China.
  • No charges have been filed yet as the international investigation continues and authorities prepare for further enforcement actions.