Belgian police launched several raids across the country as part of an ongoing corruption investigation tied to the European Parliament. Authorities confirmed that they had detained multiple individuals for questioning. Officials also revealed that an address in Portugal had been searched, and French police had arrested one suspect in connection with the case.
Huawei Lobbyists Under Investigation
Belgian newspaper Le Soir reported that the investigation focused on Chinese tech company Huawei and its lobbying efforts in Brussels. Prosecutors believe that illegal activities took place under the cover of commercial lobbying. Authorities suspect that Huawei lobbyists used bribes to gain political influence.
Officials described the alleged corruption as discreet but frequent. The suspected bribes included cash payments, expensive gifts, luxury trips, and invitations to high-profile football matches. Some lobbyists are also believed to have paid for extravagant meals and entertainment in an attempt to sway political figures.
Huawei responded to the allegations, stating that it was taking the matter seriously and was fully cooperating with investigators. A company spokesperson emphasized that Huawei had a “zero-tolerance policy toward corruption” and that it followed all legal and regulatory guidelines.
Offices in the European Parliament Sealed
Authorities confirmed that two offices inside the European Parliament had been sealed off. These actions were taken at the request of the judge leading the investigation. Sources reported that those detained included lobbyists who allegedly bribed current and former Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to support Huawei’s trade policies.
A spokesperson for the Belgian prosecutor’s office clarified that no MEPs had been directly targeted during the raids. However, the investigation is looking into whether any lawmakers knowingly accepted bribes. Officials carried out 21 raids across Brussels, Flanders, and Wallonia. They are investigating corruption, forgery, and potential money laundering tied to the case.
A Pattern of Corruption in the European Parliament
This is not the first time corruption scandals have rocked the European Parliament. In December 2022, Belgian authorities arrested four people in connection with another bribery scheme involving Qatar. That case, known as “Qatargate,” accused Qatari officials of using cash-filled suitcases to influence European lawmakers.
Similarly, in 2011, Belgian authorities investigated a case where lobbying firms had allegedly offered expensive gifts and paid vacations to European politicians. That inquiry led to new ethics rules, but critics say enforcement remains weak.
With the current investigation into Huawei’s lobbying efforts, European officials may face increased pressure to reform anti-corruption laws.
Calls for Stricter Regulations
Following the raids, several European leaders called for stronger anti-corruption measures. Some MEPs urged greater transparency in lobbying practices. Others pushed for a stricter code of conduct to prevent corporate influence over lawmakers.
The European Parliament has ethics rules in place, but watchdog groups argue that enforcement is inconsistent. Transparency International, an organization that tracks corruption, said the recent raids highlight the need for tougher oversight. They called on the EU to establish an independent ethics body to investigate misconduct.
The European Commission also weighed in, stating that it was monitoring the case closely. An official spokesperson said the Commission takes corruption “extremely seriously” and supports efforts to strengthen transparency rules.
What Happens Next?
Prosecutors are continuing their investigation and have not ruled out further arrests. Belgian authorities plan to analyze seized documents and electronic records to uncover the full extent of the alleged corruption.
The case could have significant consequences for European politics. If investigators find evidence of bribery, it may lead to criminal charges against lobbyists and political figures.
For now, officials stress that the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are urging the public to remain patient as they gather more evidence.