Didier Reynders has rejected accusations of wrongdoing after reports emerged that Belgian authorities are investigating him in connection with a money-laundering inquiry.

On Friday, Reynders publicly denied any criminal conduct following media claims that police had discovered significant sums of cash during searches of properties linked to him. According to Belgian broadcaster RTBF, investigators are examining transactions involving roughly €1 million in funds deemed suspicious.

Reynders, who previously served as Belgium’s finance and foreign minister and most recently as Justice Commissioner at the European Commission, said through his lawyer that he is fully cooperating with the magistrate overseeing the case. He stressed that the matter relates solely to the handling of his personal assets.

His legal team firmly disputed the criminal interpretation circulating in the media, stating that it is being challenged “both in fact and in law,” and emphasised that none of Reynders’ political roles are under question.

The searches reportedly took place shortly after Reynders’ five-year term at the Commission ended on Sunday. The raids were first disclosed by investigative outlet Follow the Money, alongside Belgian newspaper Le Soir.

RTBF reported that investigators are focusing on about €800,000 in alleged cash payments made over the past 15 years, as well as approximately €200,000 spent on tickets for the Belgian National Lottery within the last five years. During the searches, police also reportedly found €7,000 in cash.

An EU anti-money-laundering law adopted earlier this year — during Reynders’ mandate — classifies national lotteries as low risk, meaning they are subject to fewer controls. A Commission spokesperson, however, denied that Reynders or his office had any involvement in shaping that specific provision.

Reynders’ lawyer declined to provide further comment, citing respect for ongoing judicial proceedings and reiterating the principle of presumption of innocence.