URGENT UPDATE: A former procurement officer from Transport for NSW has confessed to facilitating a massive kickback scheme during a live anti-corruption inquiry. Peter Le disclosed that he connected the alleged mastermind, Ibrahim Helmy, with a contractor as far back as 2019, revealing the shocking depths of corruption within the agency.
During his testimony on Thursday, Le admitted to communicating via WhatsApp with Helmy about illicit arrangements involving family-owned contractors. The inquiry, led by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), is probing allegations that Helmy orchestrated corrupt dealings with nine companies, which received at least $343 million in contracts from Transport for NSW.
Le detailed how he provided Helmy the contact information for Michael Kennedy, director of Avijohn Contracting, to facilitate their corrupt dealings. He expressed reluctance to approach Kennedy directly, fearing the contractor would refuse and report their intentions to authorities. When pressed about his awareness of the illegality of their actions, Le confirmed his understanding that such conduct was improper under Transport for NSW regulations.
Helmy, now 38, is accused of pocketing a staggering $11.5 million in kickbacks over a span of 15 years, receiving payments in cash, gold bullion, and cryptocurrency from contractors in exchange for lucrative work contracts. He notably failed to appear before the ICAC in May and has since been evading law enforcement.
Le’s testimony marks a pivotal moment in the investigation as he acknowledged his role as an assistant in Helmy’s procurement team after joining in 2023. Under questioning from ICAC counsel, Rob Ranken, SC, Le revealed that Helmy depended on him to manage their corrupt operations, emphasizing the systemic issues within Transport for NSW.
This unfolding scandal raises critical questions about accountability and integrity within public service. The ICAC’s investigation continues to uncover layers of corruption and impropriety, with the public demanding transparency and justice for the misappropriation of taxpayer funds.
As developments emerge, all eyes remain on the ICAC for further updates and potential consequences for those involved in this extensive kickback scheme. The inquiry underscores the urgent need for reform and vigilance against corruption in public sectors across Australia and beyond. Keep following for more breaking news on this significant case.
