SPD politicians investigated in Hannover clinic sale probe

Prosecutors in Hannover are investigating several Social Democratic Party (SPD) politicians regarding the sale of a former clinic site in Lehrte. The investigation focuses on allegations of aiding anti-competitive agreements during a bidding process, combined with the violation of business secrets.

The individuals under investigation include Adis Ahmetovic, a member of the Bundestag and SPD co-chairman in Hannover; Steffen Krach, the former President of the Hannover Region; and Stefan Politze, the former SPD parliamentary group leader in the Lower Saxony state parliament. Following the lifting of Ahmetovic’s immunity, investigators searched his parliamentary office as well as three residences in Hannover and Berlin.

The case involves suspicions that confidential information regarding a competitor's bid was leaked. Additionally, authorities are investigating potential bribery and corruption involving businessman Gaurav Garg, who reportedly made a donation of 9,900 euros to the Berlin SPD shortly after the bidding process. All three politicians have denied any wrongdoing and expressed willingness to cooperate with the investigation.