Belgian justice opens investigation into cash payments to elected officials from across Europe. Investigation is a continuation of the information made public two weeks ago by the Czech and Polish services.
“Cash payments did not take place in Belgium, interference did!” says Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. An update to the Belgian penal code, passed last week, imposes heavier penalties on acts of espionage and foreign interference. The investigation was opened at the end of the week by the Belgian federal prosecutor's office, announced Friday. The Belgian government currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU. It is expected that the investigation will last at least a few weeks, the prime minister says. The probe is expected to last about a week, according to the Prime Minister’s office, and no further action will be taken against the officials, he adds. The investigations are expected to be concluded within a few days, the PM's office says. For confidential support, call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or click here.