Corruption squad finds hole in road repair contracts

Take note – story published 6 years ago

The Latvian Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) has sent a criminal case to the Prosecutor General’s Office, asking to launch criminal prosecution against six persons for forgery of documents during repairs of Krisjana Barona Street in Riga, KNAB reported.

KNAB has asked the prosecutor to impose sanctions on two legal entities. KNAB underscored that investigation of the case has required considerable work of investigators, revising a large number of documents and interviewing a large number of persons in relation to the criminal case.

The criminal procedure on alleged crimes was launched in October 2016. Among the suspects, there are two officials of the Riga City Council transport department, one of which is not working in the department any more.

The corruption watchdog reminded that no person can be considered guilty before the guilt is proved by the court.

The corruption watchdog also calls on residents and businesses who hold information about corruption cases in relation to the case to report to the KNAB.

As reported, KNAB said in October that there is evidence obtained that a state official has forged documents in the procurement organized by the Riga City Council transport department.

Forgery of documents or presentation or use of forged documents carry a sentence of up to two years in jail, community work or a fine.

The Corruption Prevention Bureau also raided Binders road construction firm, which renovated Krisjana Barona Street's surfacing, and seized some documents.

LETA also reported that repairs of Krisjana Barona Street in Riga cost EUR 2.6 million, while repairs of sidewalks cost EUR 900,000.

The quality of the street renovation and the length of time it took to complete  prompted widespread public criticism and mockery.

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