Construction project in Munich

D: Public prosecutor investigates René Benko

The Munich I public prosecutor's office is investigating entrepreneur and Signa founder René Benko (46).

Under the file number 318 Js 211851/23, the authorities initiated proceedings in November on suspicion of money laundering, according to the German newspaper "Bild".

"Can't say anything about it"
Three-digit million sums are said to have been smuggled abroad via company links. The authorities have not yet confirmed or denied this - they "cannot say anything about it".

Lawyer unaware of proceedings
Benko's lawyer does not want to know about the proceedings, but wants to cooperate with the authorities if necessary. 

According to German media reports, the case concerns a construction project between Munich Central Station and Karlsplatz. Explosive: Benko's companies are said to have given lenders exaggerated information about future rental income and thus obtained loans on better terms.

Most of the money is said to have flowed abroad
A large part of the money is said to have flowed abroad. According to reports, initial indications came from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), a sub-authority of the Federal Ministry of Finance that specializes in money laundering and terrorist financing.