…By Jack Sylva for TDPel Media.
The headquarters of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games organising committee have been raided by anti-corruption police in France.
This operation is part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged embezzlement of public funds.
The Financial Public Prosecutor’s Office (PNF) confirmed that searches are being conducted at various locations, including the COJOP headquarters (Games organisers) and SOLIDEO, the public body responsible for construction projects associated with the event.
Preliminary Investigations by PNF
The PNF has initiated two preliminary investigations in relation to this case.
The first investigation, launched in 2017, is being handled by the Central Office for the Fight Against Corruption, Financial and Tax Offences.
It involves allegations of “illegal taking of interests, embezzlement of public funds, favouritism, and concealment of favouritism.”
The focus of this inquiry is primarily on contracts awarded by COJOP.
The second investigation, initiated last year, has been assigned to the BRDE, the financial brigade of the Parisian police.
It involves charges of “illegal taking of interests, favouritism, and concealment of favouritism” in connection with contracts awarded by both COJOP and SOLIDEO.
Paris 2024 and International Olympic Committee Response
Paris 2024 organisers have acknowledged the ongoing police search at their headquarters and have stated their full cooperation with the investigators to facilitate the ongoing probe.
The organising committee’s offices are located in the Saint-Denis area of Paris.
The Olympic Games are scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11 next year.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has been informed about the police search at the Paris 2024 headquarters.
An IOC spokesperson has stated that Paris 2024 is fully cooperating with the authorities in this matter, and any further inquiries should be directed to them for additional information.
The investigation into the alleged embezzlement of public funds within the Paris 2024 Olympic Games organising committee highlights the seriousness with which authorities are approaching potential corruption in relation to the prestigious sporting event.
As the investigations unfold, more details are expected to emerge regarding the specific allegations and any implicated individuals or entities.
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