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Two employees of an Italian state-subsidized ferry company appeared before a judge Wednesday as part of a sweeping corruption investigation that has already implicated 13 suspects and prompted the seizure of three ferries.
The suspects faced preliminary questioning and prosecutors have requested house arrest for both in connection to the probe into the dealings of the Tirrenia–Compagnia Italiana di Navigazione (CIN).Â
Authorities allege that company officials offered free ferry tickets in exchange for favors from public officials. The investigation involves around 40 suspects, including coast guard officers, law enforcement officials, prefecture employees, and two magistrates.
Investigators told media that at least 87 trips valued at €20,000 ($22,600) were documented by Italy’s Guardia di Finanza.
Three vessels have been seized as a precaution but remain in service to ensure continued connectivity between mainland Italy and its islands.
Authorities allege the misconduct began in 2021, with technical inspections uncovering non-compliant engines and equipment aboard CIN ferries. Prosecutors claim the company used falsified documents to maintain its fleet’s operation.
The charges range from fraud and forgery to corruption. Prosecutors have requested house arrest for two suspects and temporary interdictions for eleven others. Four more individuals, including company staff and coast guard officials, are due to be interrogated on Thursday.
The shipping company told The Maritime Executive through its lawyers it was “astonished” over the allegations and that it has made large investments to conform with regulations on pollution.
