Authorities arrested thirteen individuals suspected of operating a network that laundered nearly two tons of gold over six years.
Tunisian financial police have seized over 70 kilograms of gold and 4.5 kilograms of silver in an investigation into a money laundering and tax evasion network. The operation, led by the economic and financial investigations unit in El Gorjani, resulted in the detention of thirteen people. Investigators suspect the network, composed of jewelers and factory owners, used shell companies and exploited artisan supply records to launder gold of unknown origin into legal channels over the past six years.
The alleged scheme aimed to introduce precious metals into legitimate trade circuits, with illicit profits reportedly reinvested in real estate and luxury goods. Authorities also confiscated over 120,000 dinars in cash and nine luxury vehicles valued at approximately 25 million dinars. The suspects face charges including criminal conspiracy, forgery, and habitual money laundering.
The investigation began following intelligence gathering and intensive surveillance of gold markets. The police are continuing their work to uncover the full extent of the network's operations, the origin of the seized metals, and the total value of the suspected financial transactions. The accusations against the detained individuals are subject to the ongoing investigation and judicial decisions.
Why it mattersInvestors are affected by the discovery of a large-scale money laundering operation that reinvested illicit profits into real estate and luxury goods.
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