Polish anti-corruption agency arrests seven in Pesa Mińsk Mazowiecki bribery probe

Poland's Central Anti-Corruption Bureau (CBA) has detained seven people in connection with an alleged corruption scheme at Pesa Mińsk Mazowiecki, a company specializing in train and locomotive repairs. The arrests, made on June 16, include three Pesa employees and four entrepreneurs who carried out orders for the company. A former soldier was also among those apprehended.

Investigators suspect that from December 2019 to January 2024, Pesa's management accepted bribes. In exchange for financial benefits, they allegedly provided confidential information about planned tender procedures to specific entrepreneurs. The CBA also stated that the scheme involved directly influencing the outcomes of these tenders. The estimated scale of the alleged corruption is substantial, potentially covering over 1,150 public orders with a combined value exceeding 28.5 million Polish zloty (approximately $7.1 million USD).

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The criminal scheme took place between December 2019 and January 2024. It involved accepting financial benefits by individuals holding managerial positions in the company in exchange for providing entrepreneurs with confidential information about planned tender proceedings and directly influencing their course.

Following the arrests, prosecutors imposed preventive measures, including financial guarantees, police supervision, and restrictions on contact with certain individuals. Some of the detained have reportedly confessed to the charges, and the investigation is ongoing, with further procedural steps anticipated. Pesa Mińsk Mazowiecki, which is cooperating with authorities, stated that the accusations might concern employees responsible for ordering painting materials and services for vehicle repairs during the specified period. The company is awaiting formal confirmation that it is a victim in this case.

Pesa Mińsk Mazowiecki, part of the Pesa Group since 2008, is a significant employer in the region, with over 700 staff. The facility, originally established in 1952, specializes in repairing electric rolling stock and has modernized trains and locomotives. The CBA also reminded the public about a non-punishment clause for managerial bribery, which allows individuals to avoid penalties if they report the offense and disclose all relevant circumstances before authorities become aware of them.

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Due to the ongoing proceedings, we do not comment on the matter at this stage; we cooperate with the prosecution and services. The company in Mińsk Mazowiecki awaits formal confirmation that it is a victim in this case.