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Berlin police officers (symbol image): Where does the six-digit sum in the chief police officer's account come from?
Photo: Paul Zinken / picture alliance / dpa
Just a few days ago, several Berlin police officers were suspected of having consumed confiscated cocaine.
Now there is also a bribery scandal in the room: the Berlin public prosecutor's office and the State Criminal Police Office have had homes and two police offices searched at a total of 41 locations in Berlin.
The new investigations are directed, among other things, against two police officers from Directorate 5, as announced by the public prosecutor and the press office of the Berlin police.
Around 350 officers were involved in the morning searches, said a police spokesman.
Six businessmen also accused
The accused police officers – a police inspector and a police superintendent – are suspected of having carried out data queries in the police system for six business owners who were also accused and warned them of upcoming controls.
The chief police officer is also said to have initiated investigations without first correctly recording the basis for suspicion – such as information from business owners.
The authorities are also trying to find out where the approximately 249,000 euros that were paid into his account come from.
In this case, there is particular suspicion of corruption and bribery, according to the official statement.
In addition, other suspicions have now arisen, among other things, because of evasion of criminal prosecution in office, perversion of justice in indirect perpetration, tax evasion and money laundering.
Several digital data carriers and mobile phones were confiscated during the raids.
The suspects were also deprived of access to a total of 287,000 euros in the course of a so-called asset arrest.
In addition to the criminal investigations, the Berlin police are currently also deciding on administrative steps.
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, disciplinary steps would also be taken.
Apr