Bribery Scandal Unveils Huawei's Alleged Influence in European Parliament

Several individuals have been detained over suspected bribery in the European Parliament, purportedly benefiting China's Huawei. Belgian investigators conducted searches across Belgium and Portugal. The corruption involved political favors through disguised commercial lobbying. A suspect was also arrested in France, with investigations ongoing and full cooperation from the European Parliament.

Belgian prosecutors announced on Thursday the detention of several individuals in connection with suspected bribery within the European Parliament, allegedly benefiting Huawei, the Chinese tech giant.

Investigators conducted thorough searches across 21 locations in Belgium and Portugal. They discovered the corruption operation, masquerading as commercial lobbying, involved monetary benefits and excessive gifts to sway political positions, beginning discreetly in 2021.

A suspect was arrested in France, and the European Parliament confirmed receipt of a request from Belgian authorities for cooperation in the investigation. Meanwhile, Huawei remained silent on the allegations, and the probe into the forgery and false document claims continues.