(MENAFN) Belgian prosecutors have formally charged former EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders with money laundering, according to reports from local media.

The seasoned politician, known for spearheading the European Union’s efforts to "freeze Russian state assets," is accused of moving substantial sums of money through personal bank accounts and lottery winnings.

Reynders previously held the role of Belgium’s finance minister from 1999 to 2011 and served as foreign minister until 2019.

He later became justice commissioner in the European Commission led by Ursula von der Leyen, overseeing the enforcement of Russian sanctions and the coordination of asset freezes following the escalation of the Ukraine conflict.

As detailed in reports released on Tuesday, the investigation focuses on the source of nearly €1 million ($1.2 million) linked to Reynders’ finances.

Authorities claim he laundered approximately €700,000 through his personal bank account over a span of ten years, and another €200,000 by buying large volumes of lottery tickets and depositing the winnings into his account.

His wife, a retired magistrate, has been questioned as part of the probe but has not faced charges.

The investigation followed searches of Reynders’ residences in December 2024, shortly after his tenure at the EU ended. Judge Olivier Leroux formally indicted him last month after a second round of questioning, having identified "serious indications of guilt," as reported by the investigative outlet Follow the Money. Reynders denies any wrongdoing and remains free as proceedings continue.

Under Belgian legislation, prosecutors are required to secure parliamentary approval before bringing a former minister to trial. Conviction for money laundering could result in a prison term of up to five years.

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