Germany's Customs in 2024: 1,954 Cases, €11.88M Damage, 42 Years in Prison
Germany's Customs service, with approximately 48,000 employees, plays a crucial role in public security, consumer protection, and federal budget financing. In 2024, they tackled significant challenges, including Schwarzarbeit fraud and counterfeit goods.
The Schwarzarbeit control unit pursued 1,954 criminal cases involving social security fraud or illegal residence, causing an estimated 11.88 million euros in damage. Courts imposed prison sentences totaling 42 years and 4 months. Customs seized 17,087 units of non-importable goods, worth over 2.5 million euros, mainly counterfeit products.
The criminal and administrative offense department processed 5,350 criminal and 2,177 administrative offense cases, resulting in fines and penalties totaling 194,256 euros. The enforcement and liquidation department handled nearly 247,000 enforcement cases and collected 109 million euros in claims. The Main Customs Office in Aachen processed nearly 400,000 declarations with over 3 million positions and collected 400 million euros in taxes. The traffic control unit inspected 9,771 vehicles and 8,986 individuals, seized narcotics, and prevented the import of weapons.
In addition to their enforcement duties, Customs offers career opportunities. Apprenticeships and study places in the higher service are available, with applications open until 15 October 2025. The Stadt Aachen collected 109 million euros in claims, contributing to the federal budget.
