
Authorities in Trento, northern Italy, have issued an arrest warrant for Austrian property magnate René Benko, the founder of the bankrupt real estate group Signa.
Austrian officials, however, have declined to enforce the warrant, citing national jurisdiction. A spokesperson for the Innsbruck prosecutor’s office confirmed that Benko has been questioned by the Tyrolean Criminal Police but remains free and is not subject to any restrictions.
Key Figures Detained in Italy
Benko is at the centre of a major legal investigation in Italy, which has seen several other key figures detained. Among them are Heinz Peter Hager, the head of Signa’s Italian operations, and Cristina Santi, the mayor of the town of Riva del Garda. Both are currently under house arrest.
Italian police conducted searches across the country, targeting businesses and public offices in cities such as Trento, Bolzano, Milan and Rome. A total of 100 searches were carried out, with investigators seizing computers, tablets and smartphones.
Allegations of Criminal Networks
Prosecutors in Trento allege that Benko is a central figure in a suspected criminal network linked to real estate developments in northern Italy. They accuse him of using his influence to advise Hager on obtaining permits for construction projects.
The investigation has involved 77 people, including public officials, police officers and business leaders, accused of misconduct between 2018 and 2022. The charges include bribery, corruption, fraud, tax evasion and using improper influence over public contracts and political campaigns.
Authorities claim that gifts, cash and favours were offered to officials in exchange for approvals and streamlined procedures for property developments.
Investigations Sparked by IT Breach
The inquiry began in 2019, following an unauthorised access to the IT system of a Bolzano city official. Investigators allege that improper advantages, including financial contributions to political campaigns, were provided in return for favourable treatment in property deals.