Five arrested in Norway in NATO ship-services fraud investigation

Five people were arrested in Norway in an investigation into suspected fraud and bribery involving services for NATO member states' vessels, Eurojust announced on October 14.

Investigators allege that a company and its subcontractors submitted fraudulent invoices for shore-based services provided to ships and crews during port visits in northwestern Europe. The NATO Support and Procurement Agency identified the suspected irregularities.

The company is also suspected of using an intermediary to bribe foreign public officials in exchange for preferential treatment in its contracts with the agency.

Norwegian authorities searched homes and business premises. Searches in Romania covered a company office and several homes, while German authorities searched two businesses and one residence.

Eurojust began supporting the case in April 2025. In July that year, it helped establish a joint investigation team involving Norway, Romania and the United Kingdom. The investigation remains ongoing.