Bribery Scandal Unfolds: Huawei Under Investigation for Alleged Corruption Ties to EU Officials

A number of individuals have been detained in a corruption probe associated with the European Parliament and Huawei. The allegations involve the company potentially bribing officials within the European Union, as reported by the Associated Press.

A representative from the Belgian federal prosecutors’ office, where the European Parliament is based, stated that officials are conducting «a continuing investigation into preliminary allegations of active corruption, document forgery, and money laundering tied to the European Parliament.» They added that «the alleged crimes were purportedly committed by a criminal group» aiming to advance «purely private commercial interests related to political decisions.»

The statement from prosecutors indicated that «corruption is said to have taken place routinely and discreetly from 2021 to the present, under the guise of commercial lobbying and manifested in various ways, including compensation for political roles or lavish gifts such as food and travel expenses, along with regular invitations to [soccer] matches,» noting that the «suspected bribery is claimed to have benefited Huawei.»

According to reports, law enforcement executed searches at multiple locations in Belgium and Portugal. Two offices of the European Parliament associated with two assistants believed to be involved in the case have been sealed.

The individuals in custody are being interrogated regarding their alleged participation «in active corruption within the European Parliament,» stated prosecutors. A representative for the prosecutors informed the BBC that no members of the European Parliament (MEPs) were specifically targeted during these operations. However, reports imply that around 15 current and former MEPs are «under investigation.»

Huawei has expressed its intention to «urgently engage with the investigation» to gain a clearer understanding of the situation, while taking the accusations «with utmost seriousness.» A spokesperson told the The Guardian  that «Huawei maintains a zero-tolerance approach towards corruption and any wrongdoing, and is dedicated to adhering to all relevant laws and regulations at all times.»

A spokesperson from the European Parliament indicated that the body had «received a request for cooperation from Belgian authorities to support the investigation, which the Parliament will promptly fulfill.»