Investigation of Dutch Companies for Alleged Bribery in Sri Lanka Hospital Projects
Dutch authorities are investigating two companies accused of bribery in securing contracts for hospital projects in Sri Lanka, involving over €100 million. The investigation includes financial transactions through a British Virgin Islands company and has led to the seizure of more than €2 million. Both Enraf-Nonius and IPD are key entities under scrutiny, with admissions of improper payment processes issued by IPD’s directors.
Dutch authorities are investigating two companies suspected of bribery connected to hospital construction projects in Sri Lanka. According to an investigation by the Dutch financial newspaper FD, millions in bribes were allegedly paid to secure contracts valued at over €100 million, potentially to a high-ranking civil servant. The payments purportedly utilized forged contracts and invoices to cover their tracks.
The investigation focuses on three hospitals totaling nearly two thousand beds, including a children’s clinic that was inaugurated two years ago. Financing for these projects came from Rabobank, with export credit insurance provided by Atradius Dutch State Business, as reported by FD. The Dutch Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service (FIOD) has confirmed an ongoing investigation, which involved raids in four countries last September, resulting in the seizure of more than €2 million.
Details indicate that the corruption probe is centered on financial transactions related to the construction of these hospitals. Payments reportedly flowed from Enraf-Nonius, a Dutch medical equipment trader based in Rotterdam, from a Rabobank account to a company located in the British Virgin Islands. This company received approximately €5 million from various parties, including a small German construction firm and an Australian multinational providing technical services.
The ownership of the involved company is attributed to Sri Lankan businessman Nimal Perera. Alongside Enraf-Nonius, a second Dutch entity, IPD—part of the architectural firm AKM from Barendrecht—played a role in supervising the technical design and construction finances of the projects. The investigation has also named IPD and its two directors as suspects. The directors have admitted to transferring payments to a company believed to be misused by Nimal Perera, asserting that these payments were pre-approved by Enraf-Nonius and discussed with Rabobank and tax authorities.
The ongoing investigation into alleged bribery related to hospital construction projects in Sri Lanka raises significant concerns regarding corporate ethics and governance. With millions purportedly exchanged through illicit means, it highlights the necessity for stringent oversight in international contracts. The actions of the entities involved will likely have profound implications, both legally and reputationally, as regulatory bodies continue to pursue justice in this high-stakes matter.
Original Source: sundaytimes.lk
