EPPO brings five people accused of rigging 22 tenders involving European funds, causing damage of EUR 1.8 million, to trial

Five people have been indicted by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), accused of rigging 22 public procurement procedures financed with European funds. Investigators estimate the damage at approximately €1.8 million, equivalent to 9.5 million lei.

The indictment was submitted to the Bucharest Tribunal by the EPPO office in Romania. According to prosecutors, the alleged criminal activity took place between 2017 and 2022 and concerned projects carried out in seven communes in Dolj County.

Two of the defendants allegedly identified eligible programs, contacted local authorities, and prepared the documentation required to obtain financing and organize the tenders. Information about the contracts was allegedly passed on to three other members of the group, who purportedly used several companies to participate in the procedures.

Investigators claim that false documents were used during the tenders to demonstrate compliance with the eligibility requirements. The contracts were part of projects financed through the Human Capital Operational Programme, intended to support vulnerable people and marginalized communities by providing food, workshops, and training sessions.

Precautionary measures have been imposed on assets worth approximately 9.5 million lei in the case. The defendants face prison sentences ranging from three years to ten years and six months if found guilty. An indictment does not amount to a finding of guilt, which will be assessed by the court.