The Central Criminal Police (KKP) suspect Hannes Lumiste of corruption. He is the deputy mayor of Toila municipality and head of the economic sector. KKP believes that he altered public procurement rules and accepted bribes. He has previously been convicted of this.
KKP believes that Lumiste organized at least five public procurements. He changed the rules to help companies associated with himself. The cost of one procurement was at least 400,000 euros. The police suspect that he repeatedly accepted bribes.
Aivar Sepp, head of the KKP corruption bureau, says that corruption is often for personal gain. Officials must be honest in their decisions. They must not use their position for personal gain.
Prosecutor Kristina Meus adds that officials must act in the public interest. When a position is used for personal gain, it is a very serious matter. It damages society's trust and fair competition. Meus says this case is very serious because Lumiste has previously been convicted.
KKP also suspects two men in connection with bribery. One of them promised a bribe, and the other gave at least 2000 euros as a bribe.
On November 11, the police conducted searches at the suspects' homes and workplaces. They collected additional evidence. The investigation continues, and suspicions may change.
The KKP corruption bureau and the prosecution are handling the investigation. Hannes Lumiste was convicted of corruption 10 years ago. He received a suspended sentence.