LRT: Lithuanian MPs’ offices, homes raided in major corruption probe PHOTO

The Special Investigation Service (STT) in Lithuania recently carried out searches in the Seimas offices of Democratic Party “For Lithuania” leader Saulius Skvernelis and Conservative Kazys Starkevičius. Skvernelis has insisted that he has done nothing illegal.

“I cannot comment; I signed a non-disclosure agreement. I will speak when it is possible,” Skvernelis told LRT Radio on February 9.

“I am calm. I have done nothing criminal. The authorities are carrying out their work, which I respect. In a legal state, I will defend myself using legal means,” he added.

Skvernelis said the investigation has already caused damage to his party. “Even these procedural steps have caused huge harm,” he told journalists. He confirmed that the party will discuss next steps later on February 9, but stressed decisions would be made calmly.

When asked if he would waive parliamentary immunity if requested by the General Prosecutor, he said he hoped it would not be necessary. “But I would not hide behind any protections if it came to that. I hope the questions can be answered and this matter resolved,” he said.

The STT is investigating a large-scale corruption case involving Lithuania’s State Plant Service. Searches have also reportedly been carried out at the homes of the politicians.

Last December, authorities detained 13 individuals in the case, six of whom were remanded for one to two months. Others faced lighter measures. Allegations include organised bribery, influence trading, and corruption within private companies linked to the Plant Service.

Over 100 searches recovered more than €1.3 million in cash, eight kilograms of gold valued at around €1 million, 11,000 cigarette packs, 14,000 litres of alcohol, cocaine, and explosives.

By Aghakazim Guliyev