On Tuesday, Brussels police detained former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Federica Mogherini after a raid on EU diplomatic premises amid an investigation into alleged misuse of EU funds.
Police Raid EU Diplomatic Facilities
Belgian police conducted a raid on the EU diplomatic service in Brussels, the College of Europe in Bruges, and private homes linked to the European prosecutor’s investigation into alleged abuse of EU funds.
The search was carried out by Belgian federal police from West Flanders and the European Anti-fraud Office (OLAF).
Arrest of Former EU High Representative
Former EU Ambassador to France and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs (2014‑2019) Federica Mogherini was arrested together with two others.
Police secured documents and detained three persons for questioning on accusations of procurement fraud, corruption and conflict of interest.
Scope of Investigation: Procurement Fraud Allegations
The investigation focuses on whether the College of Europe or its representatives were forewarned about selection criteria in a tender for a youth diplomat training programme across member states.
There is serious suspicion that confidential tender information was shared with a single candidate.
Agency Involvement in the Operation
The raid involved Belgian federal police from West Flanders and OLAF.
Prior to the searches, the European Public Prosecutor Office requested removal of immunities for several suspects; the request was accepted.
Background and Current Positions
Mogherini served as the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs from 2014 to 2019. She now heads the College of Europe, which was also searched during the operation.
