Long-running corruption scandal adds €25.8M fine to billions already paid globally

The Netherlands Public Prosecution Office has fined a company linked to a U.S.-sanctioned Israeli businessman €25.8 million ($29.9 million) for bribing officials in the Congo. The case began in 2018 and relates to bribes paid in 2010-2011, demonstrating the slow and complex process often involved in such investigations.

However, compliance should note that despite slow progress, such cases can lead to substantial financial and reputational penalties. Recent commitments to pursuing corruption investigations in the U.K. and EU may further increase the potential for action in the future. This case also highlights the way in which connected offenses should present red flags and that crimes may be prosecuted in multiple jurisdictions.