In the continuation of the operation aimed at countering corruption and money-laundering, members of the Serbian Ministry of the Interior (MUP), the Criminal Police Administration and the Police Administration in Nis (southern Serbia) have arrested 11 people in the territories of Nis, Belgrade, Leskovac (southern Serbia) and Paracin (central Serbia), on suspicion that they have acquired illegal gain worth EUR 3 million, the MUP released on Tuesday.

They have been arrested on the well-founded suspicion that they have committed criminal acts of abuse of office, forging documents and money laundering, the announcement underlines. The police are looking for the remaining three persons, who managed to escape.

In the period from June 2007 to July 2010, the suspects were using their influence to obtain loans by presenting false documentation, virtual business dealings and fake exchange of goods and services.

They deluded bank clerks into believing that their companies were strong and stable with excellent business results. After securing these loans, they withdrew certain amounts using the above-mentioned methods, thus providing the money for further illegal transactions.

It is believed that in this way they have managed to obtain illegal gain worth EUR 3 million. All the suspects will be questioned by the investigating magistrate of the Nis Higher Court in due time.