Complaint Against Saint-Denis Mayor Bally Bagayoko Alleges Fund Misappropriation

Bally Bagayoko, the mayor of Saint-Denis and a notable figure within the La France Insoumise (LFI) political party, is facing a preliminary investigation for alleged embezzlement of public funds, fraud, and concussion. The national financial prosecutor's office (PNF) launched the probe on August 19 to scrutinize the conditions of Bagayoko's employment as a full-time executive at the Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens (RATP) since 2001.

The investigation stems from a complaint filed on August 6 by the association "AC!! Anti-Corruption." Concussion, a criminal offense, involves a public official or someone in a public service role improperly collecting funds they know are not owed. Recel, also part of the charges, pertains to concealing, possessing, or profiting from assets known to be derived from a crime or offense.

Bagayoko, 53, is a well-known media personality within the LFI movement. The PNF's "useful verifications" aim to clarify the circumstances surrounding his long-term employment at the RATP amidst these serious allegations. The investigation is ongoing as authorities seek to determine the validity of the claims.