EPPO Investigates Suspected Fraud in French Guiana Tourism Project

On January 13 and 14, 2026, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) conducted several searches in French Guiana as part of an investigation into suspected fraud related to the construction of a tourist infrastructure financed by the European Union. The project received €4.9 million under the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Overseas Programme.

Details of the Investigation

At the request of the EPPO in Paris, operations were carried out by the Economic and Financial Brigade of the Territorial Judicial Police Service of French Guiana, in collaboration with the Cayenne Interministerial Research Group. Several individuals were arrested and questioned, with some placed in police custody. The allegations involve potential fraud concerning European subsidies.

Implications and Next Steps

The investigation aims to clarify any offenses and identify those responsible, while upholding the presumption of innocence. This case highlights the importance of oversight in the allocation and use of European funds, especially in overseas territories, to ensure transparency and accountability in development projects.