Ludovic Alamélou detained in SPL Estival financial probe

Ludovic Alamélou, the former CEO of the local public company SPL Estival, has been taken into police custody in Saint-Denis as part of an investigation into alleged financial mismanagement and malpractice.

The investigation follows reports of significant financial irregularities that occurred between 2020 and 2023. A report from the Regional Chamber of Accounts of La Réunion highlighted a rapid degradation of the company's results, noting that the company entered judicial reorganization in August 2023 with debts estimated at 3.2 million euros. The report pointed to management errors and a lack of oversight after Alamélou assumed the dual roles of board president and general manager in September 2020.

Multiple complaints have been filed, including those from 11 former employees alleging embezzlement, favoritism, and illegal interest-taking. The investigation is examining whether these actions led to the company's deep deficit. Alamélou remains presumed innocent.