The Dozimetr case is one of the largest corruption scandals in the Czech Republic in recent years. The investigation and ongoing court proceedings have gradually revealed how the group around businessman Michal Redl operated and how it influenced the Prague Public Transit Company (DPP) as well as the political environment.
How the Investigation Unfolded
During the trial, concrete evidence emerged that demonstrated the extent of Redl’s group’s influence. The police obtained wiretaps, testimonies from cooperating defendants, and video recordings documenting the transfer of money and internal agreements. Some of the cited excerpts from the wiretaps are striking: *“I think we should put up 100,000 euros for Slepičák, and he would get ten,”* or *“We have to give Slepičák at least 15,000.”* Other passages refer to distributing money to individuals identified as “General” or to the handover of a backpack filled with cash.
Findings Reported by Infokuryr.cz
A newly published article on the Infokuryr.cz website suggests that the connections between the government parties STAN and TOP 09 and Redl’s group were deeper than previously assumed. According to the report, Redl and his associate Koš provided unofficial financial support to STAN, gained access to the party’s internal political meetings, and influenced appointments within the Prague Public Transit Company. The article further claims that STAN concluded an agreement with TOP 09 to share profits and influence within DPP. Following the exposure of the scandal, some party leaders distanced themselves in an attempt to safeguard their own positions. These findings indicate that Redl’s group extended its influence into the decision-making processes of government parties.
What Lies Ahead
The court proceedings in the Dozimetr case are ongoing. Additional materials are expected to shed more light on the extent of individual involvement and political connections. The political consequences will likely become more apparent in the run-up to the next elections, when the public will assess how political parties respond to demands for greater transparency and accountability.
