Latvia's anti-corruption bureau seeks charges against airBaltic official over inflated parts deal

Latvia's Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) has submitted a proposal to prosecutors to bring charges against an official of the airline airBaltic. Investigators believe the individual may be linked to several criminal offenses connected to the company's procurement processes.

Nature of the allegations

According to KNAB, the official is suspected of abusing their official position for personal gain. The investigation also uncovered suspicions of large-scale fraud and of laundering criminally obtained funds — both serious offenses under Latvian law.

The overpriced part

The case centers on the purchase of a spare part whose final price, according to KNAB's findings, was inflated by 55,360 euros compared to its actual value. The bureau states it has obtained evidence confirming such a scheme existed.

What happens next

Submitting the proposal to prosecutors does not conclude the process — the final decision on whether to formally charge the individual and how to proceed rests with the prosecutor's office. KNAB's statement did not disclose further details about the official's identity or the exact item procured.