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Acciona Launches Investigation After Bribery Allegations Surface
Table of Contents
Construction giant denies irregular behavior, promises full cooperation with authorities.
Following allegations of improper payments to secure public contracts, construction firm ACCIONA has announced an internal investigation. The company expressed “Total ignorance, surprise and concern” after being mentioned in a Supreme Court investigation regarding potential “Public Works Awards” linked to political figures.
The Central Operational Unit (UCO) of the Civil Guard is scrutinizing ACCIONA, among other firms, for allegedly providing financial incentives to political leaders, specifically Santos Cerdán, the PSOE Secretary of Association, in exchange for favorable treatment in public tender processes.
ACCIONA released a statement denying any “irregular behavior” and declared the immediate launch of an internal investigation to clarify the situation. The company also stated that Fernando Agustín Merino Vera, a former employee mentioned in the judicial proceedings, “he was fired on April 12, 2021,” severing any connection between his actions and the company.
According to a UCO report submitted to the Supreme Court on June 5, intercepted conversations involving Koldo García, an aide to former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos, and Santos Cerdán, suggest “supposedly pending payments by construction companies” that benefited from public tenders. The investigation indicates that approximately 620,000 euros may have been paid, with an additional 450,000 euros allegedly outstanding, based on garcía’s statements in the recorded conversations.
The civil Guard suggests “There was a continuity in the relationship” between ACCIONA and individuals involved from Ábalos’ tenure in the Ministry of Transportation (2018-2021) through at least February 2024. The UCO alleges a connection between contract awards and potential financial considerations, with other construction companies like OPR and Levantine, Engineering and Construction also under scrutiny.
ACCIONA maintains that forming temporary joint ventures (UTES) is standard practice in the industry for executing complex projects. The company asserts that all established procedures and regulations were followed.
The company has reacted with a statement in which unchecking any irregular behavior and announces the opening of an internal investigation to clarify the facts.
Background on Public Contract Allegations
The investigation stems from concerns about clarity and fairness in the awarding of public contracts. Allegations of bribery and influence peddling can undermine public trust and distort market competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a UTE (Unión Temporal de Empresas)?
A UTE, or Unión Temporal de Empresas, is a temporary joint venture formed by companies to undertake a specific project. This structure allows companies to combine resources and expertise for large or complex projects.
What is the role of the UCO in this investigation?
The Central Operational Unit (UCO) of the Civil Guard is responsible for investigating serious crimes, including corruption. In this case, they are investigating allegations of bribery and influence peddling related to public contract awards.
What consequences could Acciona face if the allegations are proven true?
If the allegations are proven true, Acciona could face legal penalties, including fines and potential disqualification from future public tenders. The individuals involved could also face criminal charges.
