Inspecting Illicit Trade of Pig Fur in the Hairdressing and Cosmetics Sector - Ongoing Probe Links Local Barbershop and Nail Salon
In a recent crackdown on tax evasion and illegal employment, the Customs Administration conducted a regional special audit last week in Lower Franconia and large parts of Upper Franconia, focusing on the hairdressing and cosmetics industry. A total of 90 officers from the Financial Control Schwarzarbeit (FKS) were involved in the audit.
The audits, an important tool to reduce the social acceptance of tax evasion and illegal employment, saw 79 businesses inspected, 166 individuals surveyed, and 17 investigations initiated on-site. The news about the audits was originally transmitted by the Main Customs Office Schweinfurt.
Numerous deficiencies regarding mandatory notification and recording obligations were noted in the businesses. In addition, there is a suspicion of illegal employment of foreign workers in eight cases, and in one case, there are indications of improper receipt of state social benefits. There is also a concrete suspicion of withholding and misappropriation of wages in nine cases.
Evidence of non-payment of the legal minimum wage of 12.82 euros was found in eight cases. Indications of potential violations were found in 42 other cases. The investigations into suspected tax evasion and illegal employment in hairdressing and cosmetics in Schwabach, Lower Franconia, and Upper Franconia are led by the local public prosecutor's office (Staatsanwaltschaft) along with the tax authorities (Finanzbehörden).
The Customs Administration regularly conducts audits to combat tax evasion and illegal employment in specific industries. The Schweinfurt Customs Office will continue to focus on industries where such practices are suspected to be prevalent.
For more information, please visit the Customs Administration's website at www.zoll.de. Press inquiries can be directed to the Main Customs Office Schweinfurt Press Office, contact information provided.
