A public auction in France of more than 10 000 e-bikes and e-scooters seized in the course of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) investigation Calypso generated € 1 853 800 in proceeds. This amount is a small part of the financial effects resulting from the ongoing investigation.

As previously reported, EPPO’s investigation Calypso targets several criminal networks that manage the entire circuit of goods imported from China into the EU, including distribution across Member States and sales to end customers, while evading customs duties and committing large-scale VAT fraud. These networks – mainly controlled by Chinese nationals – are also involved in money laundering and sending the profits back to China. The fraudulent mechanism had been ongoing for at least eight years, causing an estimated loss of at least €350 million in customs duties and €450 million in VAT.

During a raid end of June 2025 in four countries, ten suspects were arrested. In France, more than 10 000 e-bikes and e-scooters were seized on this occasion with the support of the French National Anti-Fraud Office (ONAF). Today, these vehicles were put up for public auction, organised by the French Agency for the Recovery and Management of Seized and Confiscated Assets (AGRASC). The public auction generated proceeds of € 1 853 800, an amount that may ultimately be restributed, subject to a final judgement in court.

All persons concerned are presumed innocent until proven guilty in the competent courts of law.

The EPPO is the independent public prosecution office of the European Union. It is responsible for investigating, prosecuting and bringing to judgment crimes against the financial interests of the EU.