Belgian authorities announced the arrest of four individuals on Friday, including a former member of parliament, as part of an ongoing probe into a Qatar-linked corruption scheme touching the European Parliament. The statement from the Belgian Attorney General’s Office outlined the developments that have emerged over several months of inquiry.
Earlier on Friday, the Belgian Federal Police carried out 16 housing searches in several regions, including Brussels, as part of the same investigation into money laundering and other criminal activities. Officials reported the seizure of 600,000 euros in cash and noted that investigators are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry as part of a broader operation.
Federal authorities described the inquiry as focusing on potential influence by a Gulf country on economic and political decisions within the European Parliament, including allegations of substantial sums or gifts intended to sway positions on political or strategic matters. The investigators emphasized that the inquiry examines possible interference in European politics connected to Qatar, with several named individuals coming under scrutiny.
Among those identified in official statements are a former socialist member of parliament, Pier-Antonio Panzeri; Luca Visentini, the general secretary of a major European workers’ union confederation; the director of a non-governmental organization; and a parliamentary assistant, all of whom are Italian nationals. Belgian media reported these individuals as central figures in the case, which has drawn broad attention across the political sphere.
Also mentioned were four parliamentary advisers from the socialist group and another from the popular group, alongside an official from the European Parliament and representatives connected to lobbying groups operating in Brussels. Authorities clarified that no one has been deprived of liberty beyond those already detained, while others remain in custody or subject to investigations as the case unfolds.
Parliamentary sources cited by news agencies noted that officials in the European Parliament are cooperating with national authorities during the investigation. The joint effort underscores ongoing collaboration between national justice systems and the European institution in addressing concerns about influence, transparency, and accountability in political processes.
As this case continues, observers expect further updates from the Belgian authorities and the European Parliament’s leadership about the implications for governance, oversight, and anti-corruption measures across EU institutions. The evolving story is being monitored by investigators and legal experts who say the case could have broader repercussions for how lobbying, campaign financing, and external influence are scrutinized in Europe.
Citations and official statements that accompany these updates reiterate the commitment to a thorough and impartial inquiry, with authorities underscoring that cooperation with all responsible bodies remains a priority in pursuing facts and ensuring due process for all involved parties. Researchers, policymakers, and the public alike are watching how the investigation develops and what steps will be taken to reinforce ethical standards and safeguard democratic decision-making within the European Union.