Belgian Police Raid European Commission Offices in Property Sale Investigation

Belgian police have conducted raids at European Commission offices as part of an investigation into possible irregularities surrounding a major real estate transaction. The European Public Prosecutor’s Office is examining the 2024 sale of 23 Commission-owned buildings to Belgium’s sovereign wealth fund for 900 million euros, according to the Financial Times.

The EPPO confirmed that a raid took place but declined to provide additional details about the operation. Belgian police similarly refused to comment on the matter, while the Belgian prosecutor’s office, the European Commission, and SFPIM have not responded to requests for comment.

Details of the Real Estate Sale Investigation

The investigation centers on the European Commission real estate sale that took place in 2024, involving SFPIM, Belgium’s sovereign wealth fund. The transaction encompassed 23 buildings valued at 900 million euros, representing a significant portfolio of Commission-held properties.

At the time of the sale, the European Commission stated that the transaction had been conducted in full compliance with EU financial regulations. However, the EPPO’s involvement suggests potential concerns about how the deal was structured or executed.

Role of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office

The European Public Prosecutor’s Office, which leads the investigation, was established to combat crimes affecting the EU’s financial interests. The EPPO has jurisdiction over fraud, corruption, and money laundering cases involving EU funds or assets.

Additionally, the office can investigate cross-border financial crimes that impact multiple member states. The involvement of the EPPO in this case indicates that investigators believe the real estate sale may have implications for EU financial integrity.

Implications for EU Institutions

The raid on European Commission offices marks a significant development in accountability measures for EU institutions. Meanwhile, such investigations can have broader implications for how the Commission manages and disposes of its substantial property holdings across Europe.

The European Commission maintains extensive real estate assets throughout Belgium and other member states to house its operations. In contrast to typical commercial transactions, sales of EU institutional properties must adhere to strict financial regulations designed to protect taxpayer interests.

However, authorities have not confirmed what specific irregularities are being investigated or whether any individuals are under suspicion. The report indicates that the probe remains in its early stages, with investigators gathering evidence and documentation related to the transaction.

Background on SFPIM and Property Transactions

SFPIM, Belgium’s sovereign wealth fund, manages strategic investments on behalf of the Belgian state. The fund’s acquisition of European Commission real estate represented one of its larger property transactions in recent years.

According to the available information, the deal would have transferred ownership of significant Brussels-area properties from the Commission to Belgian government control. Such arrangements are not uncommon, as EU institutions periodically reassess their property portfolios based on operational needs and financial considerations.

The timing and nature of any next steps in the investigation remain unclear. Authorities have not indicated when they expect to conclude their examination of the European Commission real estate sale or whether formal charges might be forthcoming.