BREAKING: A former official from the New South Wales Transport Department, Katya Wang, broke down in tears during a hearing at the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), detailing her distress over $6,000 in cash kickbacks she received from her romantic partner, Ibrahim Helmy. This shocking revelation comes as the scandal deepens, with Helmy accused of amassing an astonishing $11.5 million in kickbacks over 15 years from contractors.
Wang’s emotional testimony, delivered on October 24, 2023, revealed that she felt uncomfortable accepting what she termed “improper money.” The cash payments began shortly after their relationship started in 2018 and continued until September 2024. During the inquiry, she described multiple attempts to return the money to Helmy, illustrating the internal conflict she faced.
“I didn’t want the cash, I didn’t need money. It was improper money,” Wang stated during the hearing, her voice breaking with emotion. She recounted a specific incident where she attempted to return the money by hiding the red envelope containing the cash in Helmy’s bag, only for him to slide it back under her door. “Because I kept trying to give it back, he didn’t give me any more bundles of cash,” she added, highlighting her discomfort.
The ICAC inquiry is investigating Helmy’s extensive kickback scheme, which reportedly involved bribes in the form of cash, gold bullion, and cryptocurrency from contractors in exchange for lucrative government contracts. The scale of the alleged corruption is staggering, with Helmy believed to have facilitated his illicit activities through his position in the agency.
Wang’s testimony is a pivotal moment in the investigation, as it sheds light on the human impact of this scandal. Her willingness to testify against her partner highlights the moral dilemma faced by many in positions of authority when confronted with unethical behavior.
As the inquiry continues, all eyes will be on the ICAC to uncover further details about the extent of corruption within the NSW Transport Department and whether more officials will be implicated. The implications of this case extend beyond just the individuals involved, potentially affecting public trust in government institutions.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.
