Belgium has arrested another MEP over the corruption scandal surrounding Qatar. Belgian prosecutors also carried out house searches on Friday, during which an MEP was also arrested for questioning.
According to the Reuters news agency, it is Belgian lawmaker Marc Tarabella. His bank vault in Liège was also raided, as were several offices in Anthisnes, where Tarabella is mayor. This was reported by the Belgian prosecutor.
Corruption
Tarabella is suspected of involvement in the corruption scandal which has been called Qatargate. The case revolves around the acquisition of influence in the European Parliament by Qatar and Morocco. According to Belgian media, former MEP Pier Antonio Panzeri, who is seen as the kingpin of corrupt practices, paid Tarabella 120,000 to 140,000 euros to represent Qatari interests in parliament. Police also searched Tarabella’s home in December.
Travel to Qatar
Tarabella’s lawyer admits that the MEP has visited Qatar several times, but that he has been “completely transparent” about it. He also denies that any law has been violated.
Source: BNR
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