Wirecard Fugitive Funded Libyan Militias, Worked for Russia

A new investigation reveals how Jan Marsalek, the former Wirecard executive wanted for fraud, built a secret empire in Libya and acted as an agent for Russian intelligence. Marsalek, who vanished in 2020 after the collapse of the German payments company, used millions of euros to fund Libyan militias. This network helped him gain political influence and secure lucrative business deals in North Africa. At the same time, he cultivated a separate life as a Russian "agent of influence." His activities were part of a broader effort by Moscow to gain economic and political leverage in the region. The findings show how Marsalek operated two interconnected schemes. One funneled money into Libya's conflict. The other served Russian strategic interests, all while he was a fugitive from German justice. Authorities are still searching for Marsalek. The investigation exposes the global reach of his operations after his escape.