Agricultural entrepreneur from Wöbbelin in sight: Suspicion of sanctions due to Russian package!

Agricultural entrepreneur from Wöbbelin in sight: Suspicion of sanctions due to Russian package!

In a surprising case, the Schwerin public prosecutor's office has initiated an investigation against Rudolf Denissen, an agricultural entrepreneur from Wöbbelin. The backgrounds are a package from Russia that contained a wooden figure, soap and a CD. The shipment, which was stopped in the Leipzig postal center, raised suspicions that the entrepreneur may have violated the EU sanctions against Russia that have been in place since 2014. The value of the package, just 2,500 rubles - the equivalent of around 26.83 euros - raises questions as to whether the contents are really as harmless as they seem. Loud NDR The shipment was not only stopped, but also examined more closely by the customs office in Taucha.

Denissen now has three weeks to respond in writing to the allegations. One thing is clear: He has already hired a lawyer and is anything but pleased about the investigation. He wants an apology from the investigators and calls for the proceedings to be dropped. The public prosecutor's office has already confirmed that there is initial suspicion and is giving him the opportunity to defend himself.

Background of the sanctions

The EU has imposed tough sanctions against Russia since 2014, which also affect trade in fertilizers and wood. On this basis, anyone who violates these sanctions will face legal consequences. For example, lays this Federal Ministry of Economics states that natural and legal persons are obliged to report information about sanctions violations. This happens within the framework of the “everyone’s duty” in accordance with Article 6b of Regulation (EU) No. 833/2014. It is emphasized how important these reports are in combating sanctions evasion.

What is also particularly interesting is that the responsible authority for such violations is the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA), which receives and processes reports via email. With this procedure, there is no obligation to research for those reporting, but the information provided must be of a substantive nature. All of this serves to efficiently advance the investigation of sanctions violations.

What could bloom in Denissen?

It currently remains to be seen whether the allegations against Rudolf Denissen prove to be unfounded or whether he will actually have to face consequences. According to the general provisions, depending on the investigation, he could face not only a fine but possibly even criminal prosecution.

In a situation in which any suspicion of a sanctions violation is taken seriously, it remains important that entrepreneurs like Denissen actively deal with the applicable regulations and seek legal advice in a timely manner. The requirements should not be underestimated, and in the event of violations, it can quickly become expensive.