In the ongoing investigations into the Jeddah flood disaster, a notary public has admitted taking SR15 million as a kickback, sources said. Out of this, the notary public gave SR3 million to someone else, the sources added. The public official has also admitted falsifying documents and issuing a title deed illegally. His wife was found to have three villas in upscale districts and eight cars. Also, his bank account showed evidence of suspicious financial transactions. The BIP is accusing the man of money laundering, falsifying official documents, taking bribes and abusing his power. The notary public and a former city mayor are two of the 332 persons whose role in the devastating floods is under investigation by the Bureau of Investigation and Prosecution (BIP), District Court, General Court and Administrative Court. The notary public has now been referred to the Administrative Court. Last week agencies probing the Jeddah flood disaster filed fresh charges against some suspects, accusing them of being involved in money laundering. The General Court will start proceedings for their trial in the coming days, local media said quoting well-informed sources. Those accused of money laundering include some former senior officials of Jeddah municipality. These officials are currently facing trial at the Court of Grievances for their alleged involvement in some other charges, such as accepting bribes of over SR5 million, misuse of power and involvement in illegal trade. According to sources, the suspects will get jail terms ranging between 10 and 15 years and fines of up to SR7 million if convicted. Moreover, the money involved in laundering will also be recovered, the sources added. __
