The National Criminal Investigation Department searched the offices of two aldermen and the workplaces of a number of civil servants in the City Hall of The Hague. They are under investigation for official corruption, bribery and violation of official secrecy.
Groep de Mos aldermen under investigation
The two aldermen in question are Richard de Mos (alderman for Economy, Sport and Outdoor Space and 1st deputy mayor) and Rachid Guernaoui (alderman for Finance, Integration and Districts). They are suspected of arranging permits in return for payment, among other things. Both aldermen are members of the political party Groep de Mos / Hart for The Hague.
Homes of aldermen searched
As well as their workplaces, the homes of the two aldermen and the addresses of three entrepreneurs in The Hague who are suspected of bribery were searched. The investigation is being overseen by an examining magistrate from the Rotterdam District Court. Dozens of government investigators and two prosecutors are also involved.
Several entrepreneurs under investigation
One of the entrepreneurs under suspicion is also a candidate for the De Mos group. He is under suspicion for have supported the party financially in exchange for, among other things, confidential information from the city council.
The mayor of The Hague has announced that he will release a statement later today.
Feature Image: Groep de Mos/Wikimedia Commons