- EBRD and Adolat reach settlement regarding fraud in EBRD-financed project
- Sanction consists of a 24-month debarment
- Settlement reduces debarment period owing to Adolat’s admission of culpability and cooperation
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has announced a 24-month debarment of Uzbek company Adolat Qurilish Servis mas'uliyati cheklangan jamiyati (Adolat).
This settlement was reached in connection with fraudulent practices related to the Namangan water project, which aims to renovate water and wastewater infrastructure in the Namangan region of Uzbekistan.
An investigation by the EBRD’s Office of the Chief Compliance Officer (OCCO) found that, in the context of one of the procurements related to the Namangan water project, Adolat had misrepresented its prior work experience by submitting forged documents as part of its proposal. It had also failed to disclose in its technical proposal, as required, payments made to a local agent.
The settlement agreement provides for a reduced sanction in light of Adolat’s cooperation during OCCO’s investigation and its admission of culpability for the fraudulent practices described.
The debarment makes Adolat ineligible to participate in projects and operations financed by the EBRD for 24 months.
The debarment qualifies for cross-debarment by other multilateral development banks under the Agreement for Mutual Enforcement of Debarment Decisions that was signed on 9 April 2010.
About OCCO
OCCO plays a central role in the EBRD’s commitment to integrity through its mandate to investigate prohibited practices in EBRD-financed projects. More information on OCCO’s broader mandate is available at www.ebrd.com/integrity-and-compliance.html.