Four charged in probe into corrupt payments to public health officials

Queensland Health officials took secret payments from a company’s representatives in exchange for the use of its medical devices in public hospitals, the Crime and Corruption Commission has alleged.

The corruption watchdog said on Thursday that its probe had found a group of public servants failed to declare their conflicts of interest or involvement in the company to Queensland Health.

Four people were facing serious criminal charges including fraud, official corruption and misconduct in relation to public office. An arrest warrant has been issued for a fifth person.

The accused group will appear at Brisbane Magistrates Court on January 15 and January 28 next year.

Dubbed “Investigation Barzona”, the probe was done in co-operation with the Queensland Office of the Health Ombudsman.

Both the CCC and Queensland Health said they would not comment further on the case while matters were before the court. The Ombudsman has been approached for comment.

With Matt Dennien

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