Spanish authorities are widening their investigation into the involvement of Maltese companies and "other entities" suspected of playing a role in an international tuna smuggling racket, reports The Times of Malta.
Earlier in February, Maltese fisheries minister Andreina Fenech was suspended for her alleged participation in the €25 million ($28.4 million) illegal tuna trade, also allegedly involving Spanish tuna ranching giant Ricardo Fuentes e Hijos and its subsidiary in Malta Mare Blue Fishing.
However, investigators are also probing potential money laundering and similar fraudulent acts, in addition to fishing irregularities, said a source close to the investigation.
