The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), led by Laura Codruța Kovesi, has successfully dismantled a Lithuanian criminal organization that jeopardized the lives of thousands, including individuals in Romania, by selling vehicles declared total losses in the USA but marketed as nearly new cars in Europe. This operation, named „Nimmersatt,” included over 40 searches across Lithuania, supported by Europol and authorities from Germany.
The criminal group was engaged in the illegal import of severely damaged vehicles from the USA. These cars, instead of being properly repaired, underwent only superficial fixes before being resold in Europe. In the process, they evaded customs duties and value-added tax (VAT), representing a significant risk to consumer safety across the continent. Many unsuspecting buyers believed they were acquiring reliable vehicles, unaware of the hidden dangers that these imported cars posed.
Notably, in April 2025, several leaders of this organization were arrested, marking a significant early blow to their operations. More recently, law enforcement officials apprehended five additional suspects and detained 25 others for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation. It is estimated that the criminal network generated around €45 million from these illegal activities, which highlights the scale and profitability of their operations.
The ramifications of these actions extend beyond financial losses; the safety of drivers and passengers was compromised due to the dangerous condition of the vehicles being sold. The modifications made to these cars often failed to meet safety standards, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries on the road. This situation has raised serious concerns among automotive safety regulators in Europe, prompting calls for stricter oversight and measures to protect consumers from similar fraud in the future.
The collaboration between agencies like Europol and national law enforcement has proven vital in tackling cross-border crime effectively. The successful execution of the „Nimmersatt” operation exemplifies the importance of international cooperation in addressing complex criminal networks that operate across various jurisdictions. Such partnerships enable authorities to share intelligence and resources, ultimately enhancing their ability to disrupt illegal activities that threaten public safety.
As the investigation continues, further insights into the extent of this network’s operations are expected to surface, potentially leading to additional arrests and the dismantling of further layers of this criminal enterprise. The commitment of the EPPO under Kovesi’s leadership highlights a robust approach to combating organized crime in Europe, setting a precedent for future initiatives aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers.
Reinforcing the need for vigilance, this case serves as a reminder to potential car buyers about the importance of conducting thorough research and verification. It underscores the necessity for stronger regulations surrounding the sale of imported vehicles, especially those with dubious histories. Consumers must be educated on recognizing warning signs and verifying the provenance of used cars to avoid falling victim to such scams.
In conclusion, the dismantling of the Lithuanian criminal organization is a significant achievement for European law enforcement. It reinforces the commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring that safety standards are upheld in the automotive industry, while also setting a strong example of international collaboration against organized crime.