The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) in Romania has charged four officials from the Danube River Administration (AFDJ Gala?i) due to a fraudulent case that resulted in a 7 million euro loss to the European Union budget. This case relates to the financing of part of the 2014-2020 Major Infrastructure Operational Program aimed at purchasing two multipurpose icebreakers for navigation in rivers.
Details of Violations and Financial Damages
These vessels were designed for navigation in shallow water conditions and to assist sinking ships. However, reports indicate that the tender specifications were set in such a way that only a specific company could win. For instance, EPPO has stated that the technical specifications of the tender included requirements for maritime vessels, while the icebreakers were supposed to be designed for inland waters.
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In 2021, the vessels were delivered with a real depth of 2.6 meters (8.5 feet), which exceeded the maximum of 2 meters (6.5 feet) stated in the contract. As a result, EPPO has indicated that these vessels can only be safely used under specific conditions, which limits their effectiveness, especially during drought periods.
Legal Consequences and Future of the Accused
The four government officials have been prosecuted for accepting these vessels and signing final acceptance reports that falsely stated that the vessels met the technical requirements. If convicted, they face imprisonment ranging from three to ten and a half years.
This case is just one of several instances of fraud involving the use of European Union funds reported in recent years, highlighting serious challenges in monitoring the use of financial resources. EPPO, as an independent entity, is striving to combat such frauds and demonstrate that no official or entity can escape legal prosecution.
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