Belgian Police Bug Huawei Corporate Box in EU Corruption Probe

Belgian security services bugged a corporate box rented by Chinese tech giant Huawei at the RSC Anderlecht football stadium as part of a broad investigation into alleged corruption involving Huawei and members of the European Parliament (MEPs). The surveillance included recordings of conversations with Huawei lobbyists, both inside the box and in their cars, which helped Belgian prosecutors seek the lifting of immunity for several MEPs under suspicion of accepting favors. Huawei used the corporate box to entertain MEPs and their assistants, aiming to secure favorable political statements and advance the company’s position in EU policymaking. MEP Daniel Attard, among those under investigation, attended matches at the box but claimed he was unaware the invitations originated from Huawei. Huawei rented the box for approximately €50,000 for the 2024/25 season, during which Anderlecht hosted major European football clubs. The probe reflects broader concerns about China's influence in European politics and the susceptibility of EU lawmakers to bribery and improper lobbying tactics.