Geneva: Prosecutor Bertossa wants to reverse burden of proof against money laundering
The head of the complex affairs section of the Geneva Public Prosecutor's Office believes that reversing the burden of proof would be the most effective tool against dirty money.
Geneva: Prosecutor Bertossa wants to reverse burden of proof against money laundering
Yves Bertossa, magistrate heading the complex affairs section of the Geneva prosecutor's office, advocates a drastic method for combating money laundering. According to him, obliging suspects to prove the lawful origin of their funds would be the most appropriate measure. He developed this position in an interview given to the newspaper Le Temps.
This specialised unit, known as "la complexe", occupies a central place in the repression of financial crimes. It has been involved in high-profile cases, such as the one concerning mining magnate Beny Steinmetz, targeted by corruption allegations. The high-profile raids and sensational trials give this division particular media exposure, sometimes accompanied by fierce controversy.
The most recent controversy concerns the trial of real estate promoters and their buildings never built, cancelled due to a telephone interception scandal. Conversations between the accused and their legal advisers had been listened to, compromising the validity of the proceedings.
Bertossa has headed this team for fourteen years. He addresses the difficulties that hinder investigations, the slowness of judicial procedures and the risks of compensation claims. The section also went through a troubled period in 2019, marked by a massive departure of staff and restructuring.
Source: Le Temps
Source: Le Temps