French authorities are set to auction a luxury yacht on Thursday, which was seized during an investigation into the "criminal activities" of Belarusian and Ukrainian citizens.
The investigation focuses on activities of an organised gang, including "arms trafficking, drug trafficking, and money laundering," according to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
Authorities identified the Belarusian citizen, Chaslau Koniukh, as the owner of the multi-million-euro yacht.
The 41-metre yacht, named Stefania, was seized in 2023. Built in 2021, it has an estimated value between €10 million and €12 million. The Stefania features a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and fireplace.
"Many details, such as glass railings and a transparent flagpole, have never been seen before on a yacht," said the auction organiser.
French judiciary discovered suspicious financial flows from tax havens, attempting to conceal the fraudulent origins of the funds used for purchasing the yacht and a luxury villa.
