Feb 19 • 13:15 UTC 🇱🇹 Lithuania Lrytas

Sources: In investigating possible corruption in the Plant Production Service, the STT questioned former Deputy Minister R. Dūdonis

The investigation into potential corruption in Lithuania's Plant Production Service has led to the questioning of former Deputy Minister R. Dūdonis and another witness amid ongoing searches in political offices.

An investigation by Lithuania's Special Investigative Service (STT) into allegations of large-scale corruption within the Plant Production Service has resulted in the questioning of former Deputy Minister R. Dūdonis and another witness identified as A. Motuzas. Dūdonis appeared for questioning on Wednesday, while Motuzas was questioned the following day. Both individuals are being treated as witnesses in the inquiry, which has wider implications for the political landscape in Lithuania, particularly concerning the involvement of prominent political figures.

As part of this extensive investigation, the STT carried out searches at the offices of notable politicians, including Saulius Skvernelis, leader of the Democratic Union "For Lithuania," and Kazys Starkevičius, a member of the Conservative faction at the Seimas (Lithuanian Parliament). The searches also extended to the residences of these politicians. Prosecutor Artūras Urbelis stated that these actions were undertaken to verify claims that the alleged criminal actions may have been connected to political favoritism, highlighting the serious nature of the accusations.

Saulius Skvernelis has been summoned as a special witness in the investigation, maintaining calm and expressing confidence in his innocence. In contrast, Kazys Starkevičius reportedly refused to provide testimony when questioned by the authorities. This situation underlines the fractious nature of Lithuanian politics, as ongoing corruption inquiries could have significant repercussions for those involved, potentially reshaping public trust and political alliances within the country.

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