Israeli billionaire's firm settles DR Congo graft probe for $30 million
A former holding company associated with Israeli billionaire Dan Gertler, previously sanctioned by the United States, has agreed to a $30 billion settlement with Dutch authorities over a corruption investigation related to mining deals in the Democratic…
A former holding company associated with Israeli billionaire Dan Gertler, previously sanctioned by the United States, has agreed to a $30 billion settlement with Dutch authorities over a corruption investigation related to mining deals in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The company, Fleurette, registered in the Netherlands, has been under investigation since 2018. Authorities have been examining whether Fleurette, along with commodities group Glencore, engaged in bribery to obtain copper and cobalt mining rights at prices below market value.
Reports suggest significant amounts were paid to an advisor of former president Joseph Kabila, who led the Democratic Republic of Congo from 2001 to 2019 and maintained a close relationship with Gertler.
The company, Fleurette, registered in the Netherlands, has been under investigation since 2018.
According to a statement from the Dutch prosecutor's office, it was determined that Fleurette, in conjunction with other parties, was involved in bribery of foreign public officials in connection with acquiring mining licenses in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
