The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has launched a multi-million pound international bribery investigation, conducting raids on five properties and arresting three individuals.
The probe targets UK firm Blu-3 and former associates of global construction giant Mace Group, centering on allegations of bribery linked to a Microsoft data centre project in the Netherlands.
Authorities suspect that Blu-3 paid more than £3 million in bribes to secure the construction contract.
In a coordinated effort, over 70 SFO officers searched homes and a commercial property across London, Kent, Surrey, and Somerset. Monaco authorities also assisted in searching a suspect’s premises abroad.
Among those present at today’s arrests was Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP, who attended one of the operations in North London.
The investigation is being conducted in collaboration with the National Crime Agency (NCA) and is ongoing.
Nick Ephgrave QPM, Director of the Serious Fraud Office, said:
“Paying bribes to do business undermines our financial markets, the reputation of British companies and the rule of law and will not be tolerated.
“Today’s action is a reminder that we will take rapid and robust action to tackle suspected bribery and corruption wherever it appears – at home and overseas.”
Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:
“Bribery undermines the values of fairness and playing by the rules, and hurts individuals, businesses, and our wider economy.”
“As part of our Plan for Change, this Government is committed to tackling all forms of bribery to protect working people and ensure criminals are brought to justice.” Photo by Kiwiev, Wikimedia commons.