Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro is under investigation in a significant corruption probe, alongside his Transport Chief Renato Boraso and other high-ranking officials.
Brugnaro has expressed astonishment at the allegations, asserting his innocence and commitment to public service. “In my heart and in conscience, I know that I have always undertaken, and will continue to undertake, the office of mayor as a service to the community, for free, always putting public interests first,” Brugnaro declared in a statement.
The investigation focuses on suspected corruption linked to building permits and urban planning decisions, particularly in Venice’s Pili area. Brugnaro dismissed these allegations as “totally unfounded,” noting that the area was already designated for construction before his tenure.
Boraso was arrested and his home searched by police. Along with Boraso, construction businessman Fabrizio Ormenese was also detained, while seven others were placed under house arrest. Eighteen individuals in total, including Brugnaro, his chief of staff, and deputy chief of staff, are under investigation.
Sale of Pili area to Singapore businessman
The case revolves around negotiations for the sale of the Pili area to Singaporean businessman Chiat Kwong Ching. Prosecutors allege Boraso engaged in corruption, extortion, and money laundering from 2015 to the present, including the underpriced sale of Palazzo Papadopoli. Boraso reportedly received €73,200 in fraudulent consultancy fees funnelled through his company, Stella Consulting.
Brugnaro, Ceron, and Donadini are accused of agreeing with Ching to sell Palazzo Papadopoli for over €10 million – below its €14 million valuation – to facilitate the Pili land sale. The prosecution claims this transaction was part of a broader scheme involving acts contrary to official duties.
The investigation, led by the Guardia di Finanza, is the most significant in Venice since the Mose corruption scandal. That resulted in 35 arrests over a decade ago. This scandal has led to widespread calls for accountability, with citizen groups and social centres planning protests demanding Brugnaro’s resignation.
As the probe continues, Venice’s City Council is set for a contentious meeting, with Brugnaro expected to attend. He will first meet with the centre-right majority council members for initial discussions. While the investigation has just begun, it has already cast a shadow over the city’s administration and sparked a heated public and political response.
The Ligurian governor is currently under house arrest for alleged corruption.
