Federica Mogherini, Rector of the College of Europe in Bruges and former EU foreign representative, has been placed under investigation along with two others. The decision was taken by the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO). Mogherini was arrested as part of an investigation into possible fraud involving European funds on Tuesday.
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College of Europe rector and former EU foreign representative Federica Mogherini placed under investigation in fraud probe
Colin Clapson
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Under Belgian law, the investigating judge now decides that there is serious evidence against a suspect, they'll be charged.
In the interests of public safety, the investigating judge may order that the suspect be remanded in custody if he or she has committed an offence punishable by imprisonment for one year or more. This may be in prison, but also under electronic surveillance (e.g. ankle bracelet).
The investigating judge may release the suspect under certain conditions.
On Tuesday, Belgian federal police conducted searches at the College of Europe in Bruges and at the European Union's diplomatic service in Brussels. A total of three suspects were arrested, including Federica Mogherini. She is the rector of the College of Europe and director of the diplomatic school.
The investigation centres on possible fraud involving European funds in the tendering process for the construction of a new school for diplomats. In addition to Mogherini, a high-ranking EU official and an employee of the College of Europe were also arrested.
The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) has now officially named the three as suspects.