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Colombia Seizes Control of 405 Lili Pink Stores in Money-Laundering Probe

The case spotlights how fast-fashion import chains can be used to move dirty money.

Overview

  • Prosecutors and the CTI intervened across dozens of cities, applying asset forfeiture to 405 stores and about 40 properties linked to the brand as the state asset agency SAE took temporary control.
  • The investigation traces back to DIAN tax alerts from 2022 and targets an alleged scheme that used shell companies, false paperwork, and irregular imports to dodge customs rules.
  • Officials say the suspected laundering tops 730 billion Colombian pesos, with alleged illicit enrichment above 430 billion and contraband goods valued at roughly 75 billion.
  • During the operations, authorities inventoried merchandise at each shop and reported one person under arrest as part of the case.
  • Lili Pink and its sister brands said they are cooperating and asked authorities to protect store operations and thousands of jobs while the SAE keeps the business running during the probe.