Introduction
Portuguese police are investigating corruption related to the acquisition of information technology services across multiple public institutions.
Context
On April 3, 2023, authorities conducted raids at various locations, including the Bank of Portugal, which confirmed its involvement in the investigations.
Developments
- The police executed 75 searches in Lisbon, Porto, and Braga, targeting residences, accounting firms, corporate headquarters, and public institutions.
- Investigators are focusing on employees rather than high-ranking officials.
- The investigation revolves around IT services contracts involving several public entities and a private company from 2017 to 2025.
- Authorities suspect active and passive corruption, document forgery, fraud, influence peddling, and other related crimes.
- The targets allegedly comprise "a group of individuals" whose actions compromised "dozens of public and private contracting procedures" valued at no less than 17 million euros (approximately $19 million).
- Police clarified that these searches aim to collect information on employees of the implicated services, not political figures.
Conclusion
The ongoing investigation highlights significant concerns regarding corruption in public procurement processes in Portugal, with the police actively pursuing individuals involved in these illicit activities.