Belgian authorities have launched a fraud investigation into former European Union Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders, just days after his term ended. The probe, announced Wednesday, centers on potential money laundering activities, according to the Brussels prosecutor general’s office.
Prosecutor spokesperson An Schoonjans confirmed that house searches were conducted as part of the investigation but did not provide further details. Reports from Le Soir and Follow the Money allege the investigation involves money laundering linked to Belgium’s national lottery, though authorities have not officially confirmed these claims.
Reynders, who served as EU Justice Commissioner since 2019, oversaw key efforts to uphold the rule of law and combat corruption across member states. Any allegations against him could cast a shadow on the European Commission, where his responsibilities included promoting transparency and ethical governance.
Reynders’ political group, Renew Europe, declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation. The case raises concerns about potential reputational damage to EU institutions, which rely heavily on public trust to enforce anti-corruption standards.
Details on the investigation remain limited as authorities continue their probe into the allegations.
