Two detained in 'Lottery' probe; former State Lottery finance director among suspects over €1.3 million
Preliminary investigation into suspected embezzlement of nearly €1.3 million involves searches and two detentions, including a former State Lottery finance director.
Two people have been detained and searches are underway at homes and other locations as part of a preliminary probe into alleged financial crime, authorities said. Prosecutors suspect officials of obtaining unlawful material benefit on a large scale and of embezzling budget funds totalling nearly €1.3 million.
Investigators target former State Lottery finance official
Law enforcement sources indicate that one of the detained is a former finance director of the State Lottery. The investigation involves searches of residences and persons at multiple sites while authorities collect evidence linked to the suspected misappropriation.
The case is being handled by the Skopje Prosecutor's Office together with the Financial Police. Officials have opened a preliminary inquiry to establish the scope of the alleged offences and to identify all individuals involved.
So far, authorities have described the matter as a suspected scheme in which public officials allegedly obtained unlawful gains of significant size. The amount under suspicion is almost €1.3 million in public budget funds.
Investigators have not released the identities of those detained pending further procedural steps. The probe remains active and authorities say more actions may follow as evidence is examined.
Photo: press material from the event
