SERBIA LAUNCHES PROBE INTO ALLEGED USAID FUND MISUSE

BELGRADE, Feb 26 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- Serbia's special anti-corruption department has initiated an investigation into allegations of financial misconduct involving the US Agency for International Development (USAID) funds in the country, the Higher Public Prosecutor's Office announced Tuesday, reported Xinhua. 

The probe followed accusations made by US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, who led the US Department of Government Efficiency. The allegations suggested possible misuse of American taxpayer funds, including money laundering and misallocation of aid.

The preliminary investigation focused on suspected abuse of office and money laundering, currently involving unidentified individuals. Prosecutors have been examining whether certain US contractors and Serbian non-governmental organisations (NGOs) improperly concentrated funds and lacked financial transparency.

Authorities have instructed police to gather documents from four NGOs, the Centre for Research, Transparency and Accountability, Civic Initiatives, the Centre for Practical Policy and the Trag Foundation, regarding their handling of USAID donations.

Additionally, Serbia's financial intelligence unit and the national bank have been tasked with reviewing the financial transactions of the targeted organisations. The investigation aimed to establish whether any Serbian entities engaged in illicit financial practices linked to USAID funding.

-- BERNAMA-XINHUA