European Parliament Vice President Eva Kaili Arrested for Corruption, Expelled from Party

(Patria) - Vice President of the European Parliament, Greek politician Eva Kaili, has been arrested as part of a corruption investigation. 

According to still unconfirmed information, 15 politicians from the European Union are being targeted by investigators for money laundering, and Vice President Eva Kaili was arrested in connection with dealings related to Qatar. 

Kaili has been expelled from her party following an investigation by Belgian authorities into corruption allegations.

"Following the latest developments and the investigation by Belgian authorities into corruption of European officials, PASOK MEP Eva Kaili has been expelled from the party by decision of President Nikos Androulakis," the centre-left party announced.

Belgian newspaper Le Soir reports that authorities searched the MEP's apartment and arrested her partner in connection with the scandal.

As reported by Politico, Belgian investigators are looking into whether Qatar sought to influence positions in parliament in ways that "go beyond classic lobbying." Police seized "approximately 600,000 euros in cash," mobile phones, and computer equipment during the raids.

In a statement, the S&D group said it was "shocked by the allegations of corruption in European institutions" and that it would "fully cooperate with all investigative authorities."

The statement adds: "Given the seriousness of the allegations, until the competent authorities provide relevant information and clarifications, we request the suspension of work on all files and plenary votes related to the Gulf states, particularly the visa liberalisation and planned visits."