Swedish authorities initiated a broad investigation into more than 300 previously unidentified organizations suspected of receiving unexplained funding, potentially tied to international sources. The probe, conducted by the Swedish Economic Crime Authority (SECA), focuses on financial records showing approximately 1.2 billion Swedish kronor (around $115 million USD) in transactions over the past three years, with origins traced to offshore accounts and unverified entities. The organizations, operating under various sectors including cultural, educational, and charitable activities, were flagged after a routine audit revealed inconsistencies in their registration and financial reporting. Initial findings suggest that 47 of these groups may have links to foreign governments, though no specific countries have been named yet. The investigation has led to the freezing of 18 bank accounts, holding a combined total of 250 million kronor ($24 million USD), pending further analysis. Authorities have interviewed over 90 individuals associated with these organizations, with plans to expand the scope to include tax records and international cooperation by mid-July 2025. The Swedish government has established a task force, including representatives from the Ministry of Finance and the Swedish Tax Agency, to oversee the process and ensure transparency. No charges have been filed, and the organizations involved have been given 30 days to provide documentation justifying their funding. This development has prompted discussions on regulatory oversight, with the task force expected to deliver a preliminary report by August 2025.
34news.online