A total of 20 raids have been conducted in Brussels and Wallonia under an investigation into fraud in the construction sector, the Brussels Labour Auditor’s office disclosed on Monday.
The operation was carried out by the Federal Judicial Police (PJF) of Brussels, in cooperation with the National Social Security Office (ONSS), the National Employment Office (ONEM), and the Immigration Office.
It was part of an investigation into large-scale fraud allegedly orchestrated by officials of several construction companies to avoid paying social contributions.
Following the searches, which took place on 10 and 11 April in Brussels, Charleroi, Namur, Mons, and Liège, 17 individuals were taken into custody for questioning. Two of them were placed under arrest, and a third was released under conditions.
These individuals are suspected of employing undeclared workers, using fake subcontractors, and partially declaring salaries. A false invoicing system is believed to have been created to justify financial transactions between the main contractors and the fictitious subcontractors.
Three vehicles and €1.2 million were also seized, while 50 bank accounts were frozen.
If the allegations are confirmed, the financial damage to social security is estimated to exceed €3 million.
The investigation is ongoing, and no further information will be disclosed at this time, the Labour Auditor’s Office said.
