Hong Kong Authorities Crack Down on Bid-Rigging: 20 Arrested in Corruption Sweep

“The joint operation conducted by the ICAC and the Competition Commission demonstrated the determination of the two agencies in cracking down on corruption and potential anticompetitive activities in building maintenance,” the South China Morning Post said. Raids on approximately 40 premises, including residences and offices linked to the suspects, yielded electronic devices and documents related to maintenance project work. The evidence collected will aid ongoing investigations into bid manipulation and inflated contract amounts.

The suspects stand accused of corrupt practices and anticompetitive behavior aimed at manipulating bidding processes to benefit associated contractors. Their actions, which if confirmed would be in violation of the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance and the Competition Ordinance, also included influencing project supervision and payment releases.

Despite facing resistance from some individuals who obstructed the investigation, authorities have stood firm in their intention to move forward with the case. Obstruction of the investigation is a punishable offense under Sections 52 and 54 of the Competition Ordinance.