Deutsche Bank's offices in Frankfurt and Berlin have been raided by officials as part of an inquiry into money laundering.

The Office of the Federal Prosecutor stated that it was conducting an investigation involving the Federal Criminal Police Office into unknown individuals and employees at Germany's largest bank.

It was revealed that Deutsche Bank had previously maintained business relationships in the past with foreign companies that are suspected of having been used for money laundering purposes.

A Deutsche Bank spokesperson confirmed to the BBC that searches had indeed taken place at its premises. However, officials have not commented on the specific individuals or companies being investigated.

The prosecutor’s office stated: No further information can be provided regarding the background of the business relationships, the transactions processed through Deutsche Bank AG, their scope, or the companies themselves. More concerning reports hint at possible links to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.

A representative for Abramovich has denied any knowledge of ongoing investigations, asserting that the billionaire has always complied with laws and regulations.

This investigation adds to Deutsche Bank's troubled history, as it follows previous raids, including a significant operation in 2018 concerning offshore account activities. With the bank slated to release its full-year results shortly, analysts are watching closely to see how these recent developments will impact its financial standing.