Money Laundering Allegations Against Pedro Calado
The Expresso reports that the Vespas Club, the oldest Disco in Funchal, may have been a center for money laundering that circulated between businesspeople and politicians in Madeira. According to a testimony made towards the Expresso, Pedro Calado despite not being the owner of the club but who since 2016 has been a rally co-driver for Team Vespas, together with his racing pilot Alexandre Camacho, is claimed to have effective control over Vespas Club.
Allegations: Vespas Club Used For Money Laundering
According to the Expresso, the Vespas Disco “was allegedly used for years as a turntable to circulate cash between businesspeople and politicians”. The newspaper continues and states that this is one of the aspects of the investigation by the Public Ministry and the Police. Further on, it says that almost 500,000 euros have been discovered in the home of the owner of Vespas Club, which also acts as the Vespas Club headquarters.
13 Envelopes And A Safe In The Wall: “Let The Sunshine In“
In a compelling article summarizing the findings of the Mega Operation, Visao.pt details a series of events that unfold like a captivating Hollywood drama penned by a skilled screenwriter. I encourage you to read the whole article.
The management belongs to Emanuel Rebelo, whose house was searched by the Judiciary Police on January 24th. Inside the room, the PJ found a safe built into the wall, containing 13 envelopes, in which there were several manuscripts with messages such as “Good, very well thank you”, “let the sunshine in”, “O generous” and “c'est la vie belle”, distributing around 500 thousand euros (449,200).
Visao.pt on Vespas Club
Pedro Calado Charged With Seven Crimes
A wealth of potentially incriminating evidence has been discovered both at Pedro Calado's home and within the mayor’s office.
In the mayor's room, 14,300 euros in banknotes were found; in a personal folder, another 2800 euros. At Pedro Calado's mother's house, the Judiciary found an envelope with a little more than nine thousand euros in cash, while in the office in the town hall a stone was found which, it seems, will be a diamond.
In the search carried out at the Pedro Calado house, the Judiciary also seized wines and several luxury watches, which, according to the Public Ministry, are incompatible with Pedro Calado's income as mayor. However, according to banking analysis, in addition to his salary as president of the Funchal Chamber, Calado deposited, in recent years, 180 thousand euros in cash.
Visao.pt on Pedro Calado
Corruption Scandal: Madeira Faces Irreversible Image Crisis
Given the recent developments and the gravity of the latest allegations, it is natural to question whether the ongoing corruption case is causing irreversible damage to Madeira's image. On one hand, concerns are rising about enduring instability and relentless corruption within its political system. On the other hand, much will depend on the public's expectations for a thorough investigation. The willingness of its citizens to hold those responsible accountable will be a crucial factor in determining the long-term impact of this case. It will indeed be imperative for Madeira to hold people accountable and to “let the sunshine” in - on all levels.
Sources: Expresso, Funchal Noticias, Visao.pt.
Care for a share?
Comments