https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/r...ndia-lwjjz967f
Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems face investigation in India
India’s foremost investigative agency has filed a criminal complaint against Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems over historic deals to supply fighter jets to the country.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) alleged that, between 2003 and 2012, the two British firms had engaged in “criminal conspiracy” to “cheat” the government of India over deals to manufacturer dozens of BAE Hawk 115 aircraft, which used Rolls-Royce engines.
The case is based on the findings of an investigation launched by the CBI back in 2016, according to a federal police document dated May 23, and seen by Reuters. It forms part of the CBI’s ongoing investigation into historic bribery and corruption allegations.
The document reportedly alleged that the manufacturers of the trainer jet paid commissions in violation of Indian defence contract rules to middlemen who helped them get the contracts by exerting “undue influence” on Indian government officials. It also said that Rolls-Royce India and its officials entered into a criminal conspiracy with unknown officials of India’s defence ministry and two middlemen between 2003 and 2012 for contracts linked to the trainer jets.
Rolls-Royce said the allegations being investigated were disclosed back in 2017, when it paid a £497 million fine to Britain’s Serious Fraud Office (SFO) to settle a case involving transactions with countries including China, India and Thailand…….
In its response, BAE told Reuters it would be inappropriate to comment on an ongoing investigation. India’s defence ministry did not respond to a request for comment.….
The filing of the document is the first step towards a formal trial.…..