IVBAM Searched by Judicial Police

As part of a national investigation, the Judiciary Police (PJ) in conjunction with the Departamento Central de Investigação e Ação Penal (DCIAP), are following leads both in Porto and Funchal regarding ‘economic participation crimes,’ including active and passive corruption and money laundering.

As such, various premises including the Porto Commercial Association of the Institute Douro and Porto Wine, the Porto Youth Foundation, and the Madeira Wine, Embroidery and Handicraft Institute (IVBAM), were searched today. The whole operation includes PJ officers, several DCIAP magistrates, and is being overseen by a judge from the Central Criminal Investigation Court.

Following the search at the Madeira Institute of Wine, Embroidery and Crafts, a short statement was issued to various press offices.  The statement read: –

“The Madeira Wine, Embroidery and Handicraft Institute (IVBAM), following a process that takes place in national terms, limited itself to providing the information requested by the authorities, and is oblivious to any irregularity.”

In an earlier statement the IVBAM categorically stated that it was not involved in the matter, as the accusations were a slur on the institutes good name.  However, not long afterwards PJ officers arrived at the IVBAM offices in Funchal, surprising staff and those in the surrounding area.

Later the IVBAM wrote:-

“Considering that the process is under judicial secrecy, and therefore cannot state the nature of the offences, we have provided all the necessary documents.”