In the spotlight : Corruption in the judicial sector – 40 million ariary extortion and influence peddling involving court clerks

The Independent Anti-Corruption Bureau (BIANCO) opened an investigation on July 3, 2025, following a referral from the Anti-Corruption Unit (PAC) of Antananarivo, concerning alleged acts of corruption, fraud, and influence peddling involving judicial auxiliaries.

The investigation uncovered a fraudulent scheme involving two court clerks, respectively  working at  the Supreme Court and the Anti-Corruption Unit, who, through an intermediary, solicited a total amount of 40,000,000 ariary. These funds were presented as necessary to expedite judicial proceedings, avoid any adjournments, and secure a favorable ruling in a case involving a foreign national prosecuted for the illegal exploitation of rose quartz.

Findings revealed that both clerks allegedly received illicit commissions and engaged in maneuvers intended to create the illusion of influence over the judicial process. Part of the money collected was later reimbursed following the exposure of the scheme. The investigation was supported by material and technical evidence, including communication records and corroborating indications of fund transfers. Additional elements also made it possible to verify certain movements and contacts linked to the case, although not all beneficiaries of the funds could be formally identified.

Furthermore, it was established that, despite these fraudulent maneuvers, the original judicial proceedings followed their normal course and resulted in the conviction of the defendant to a two-year custodial sentence, independent of the corruption-related acts.

The acts identified may constitute offenses of active and passive corruption, fraud, and influence peddling. Brought before the Anti-Corruption Unit of Antananarivo on March 17, 2026, three suspects were placed in pre-trial detention at the central prisons of Avaradrano and Antanimora.

This case illustrates BIANCO’s firm commitment to combating corruption in all its forms, including within the judicial system, with a view to preserving public trust in institutions.