German Customs raid in Rhein-Main area seizes assets over illegal exports of machine parts and chemicals to Russia

In late March 2026, German customs authorities executed a major raid targeting three companies in the Rhein-Main area suspected of violating EU sanctions by exporting machine parts and chemical substances to Russia. The investigation revealed these firms used a transport company and foreign logistics providers to covertly ship goods through neighboring countries to Russia. Authorities seized documents, electronic media, and froze assets worth nearly 1.14 million euros derived from these illegal activities. The raid involved searches of 14 locations spanning Frankfurt, Bad Homburg, and nearby districts. The case exemplifies ongoing enforcement of economic sanctions aiming to curb material support to Russia amid the Ukraine conflict.