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Money laundering in Bremen: record numbers and new laws in focus!
Bremen is significantly increasing money laundering procedures. A meeting to combat financial crime will take place from September 30 to October 2, 2025.
Money laundering in Bremen: record numbers and new laws in focus!
In Bremen, the topic of money laundering is on everyone's lips. During the current anti-money laundering conference, which takes place from September 30th to October 2nd, experts from nine federal states will discuss explosive issues of financial crime. On this occasion, the Bremen Public Prosecutor's Office presented alarming figures: In 2024, 2,095 money laundering procedures were already registered in Bremen, a sharp increase compared to only 589 procedures in 2018. In the first half of 2025, more than 900 new procedures were already counted. This development is not only local, but can also be seen in the rest of Germany, where the number of reports is continuously increasing.
A central topic of the conference is so-called “financial agents”. These people offer their bank accounts for money laundering activities and often receive commissions of up to 10 percent. The tricks of money laundering are varied: Money from illegal sources is often converted into various investments such as real estate, cars or even cryptocurrencies. Sectors with cash transactions such as restaurants, hairdressers and taxi companies are particularly vulnerable. The shadowy world of money laundering conceals the origin of illegally obtained assets and endangers not only the business location, but also trust in the financial systems.
Regulatory developments at a glance
In order to put a stop to this increasing crime, Bremen is planning a proposal to change the local jurisdiction regulations in the criminal procedure code at the upcoming Justice Ministers' Conference in November. This initiative could help to improve the legal framework to combat money laundering. In addition, the EU recently passed new laws making it easier for those with “legitimate interests” to access beneficial ownership data. This is intended to further advance the detection of money laundering and terrorist financing and is part of a comprehensive package of measures that significantly tightens the monitoring of financial companies.
Another step in the right direction is the fact that the EU has set a cap on cash payments of 10,000 euros. This measure is intended to help combat the shadow economy and increase transparency in the financial sector. From 2029, professional football clubs will also be required to check the identity of their customers and report suspicious transactions, which could represent a further building block in the fight against money laundering.
The role of private individuals
What is particularly alarming is the trend that private individuals are increasingly becoming involved in money laundering cases. This often happens through supposedly attractive job offers that attract numerous Internet users. Anyone who falls into such traps can quickly find themselves in serious legal trouble. Deumeland from Sparkasse Bremen warns urgently against making your own bank account available to third parties. The risks are great and the consequences can include criminal prosecution.
The conference also points out the dangers of modern communication. Social media can become a breeding ground for “romance scamming,” or phishing scams that fraudulently obtain account information. Caution should always be exercised, especially when it comes to job offers with exceptionally high earnings promises.
The money laundering issue is a serious concern that should not be ignored. No one should assume the role of an unwitting financial agent as the legal consequences can be serious. If you suspect illegal activity, it is advisable to inform the police and, if allegations are made, to seek legal advice immediately.
Overall, it remains to be hoped that the measures now being discussed will not only give the experts a good hand, but will also lead to noticeable improvements in the fight against money laundering.
For detailed information on the subject of money laundering and current developments in Bremen see: buten and within, Fürstenow law firm, as well as European Parliament.