Nine suspects await Falun corruption investigation
Corruption investigators are wrapping up their investigation of the companies PEAB and NCC and their work in the town of Falun, reports local Swedish Radio. Alongside industry bosses, municipal employees, who are being investigated for failing to put contracts out on tender, could also face farges. If convicted, they risk two years in prison.
Thomas Forsberg, prosecutor at the national anti-corruption unit, says the preliminary investigation should be finished by autumn.
"We're looking at bribes, including trips, visits to the races, icehockey games and dinners," Forsberg says. All were paid for by the private company.
It was revealed last year that the Traffic Department in Falun had signed a contract with PEAB without going through the correct procurement process first.
The Swedish Competition Agency has demanded that the municipality pay almost US$1 million in damages.
"It is evident there's an unhealthy culture here," says Forsberg. "Of course people have to meet to conduct business, but that doesn't mean you have to go see the qualifiers for the Eurovision Song Contest together."
Two PEAB employees, a person from NCC and six municipal workers risk prosecution. If convicted, they could be given the maximum penalty of two years in prison.
They all deny the allegations.
