Pre-trial proceedings have begun against the mayor of Venice Luigi Bruniaro, and the head of transport in city administration Renato Borasso has been remanded in custody in connection with a corruption investigation, Italian news agency ANSA reported, citing its sources.
According to them, the investigation against Bruniaro is related to negotiations with Singaporean businessman Chiat Kuon-chin for the sale of the Pili area, located on the shores of the Venetian lagoon.
Police also searched the home of 56-year-old Borasso. He was among the two arrested in the case, the second being construction contractor Fabrizio Ormenese.
Seven other suspects have been placed under house arrest, bringing the total number of those under investigation to 18, including Bruniaro, the head of his administration and her deputy head, ANSA sources said.