European lawmaker Eva Kaili is under investigation for corruption allegations, as her detention has been extended for an additional two months, bringing the "Qatargate" scandal back into the spotlight. Kaili, a Greek socialist aged 44, was dismissed from her position as Vice President of the European Parliament late last year after being accused of accepting bribes from Qatar in one of the largest corruption scandals to affect the European Union.
Prosecutors have ordered the continued detention of Belgian MEP Marc Tarabella, who has suspended his own membership, for another month as he is also being questioned in the corruption investigation. Belgian prosecutors have charged Kaili and Tarabella with involvement in a criminal organization, as well as money laundering and corruption activities. Both Kaili and Tarabella deny committing any wrongdoing.
The scandal, dubbed "Qatargate," came to light last December when authorities charged four individuals linked to the European Parliament based in Brussels after allegations that Qatar had showered them with money and gifts to influence the decision-making process. Qatar has also denied any wrongdoing.
