30-day detention for government official’s driver accused of soliciting €1,500 to secure firefighter job

Authorities have ordered a 30-day detention for a driver employed by a senior government official after investigators say he solicited a bribe of €1,500 to use his alleged influence at the City of Skopje to secure employment as a firefighter in the Fire Brigade.

The Basic Public Prosecutor's Office for Prosecution of Organized Crime and Corruption has opened an investigation against the employee of the Government's Service for General and Common Affairs (SOZR) on suspicion of the criminal offence "Receiving a reward for unlawful influence."

Prosecutor's statement

"The procedure was initiated following a report by a citizen from whom the suspect, in the period from 24 July to 4 September 2026, requested €1,500 to use his alleged influence. The suspect, who worked as the driver of a senior government official, promised the injured party that he would mediate with officials in the City of Skopje regarding employment under the announced vacancy for the recruitment of firefighters," the Prosecutor's Office said.

According to the prosecution, the suspect is employed in the Service for General and Common Affairs of the Government and is suspected of committing the offence of receiving a reward for unlawful influence by requesting money in exchange for intervening with municipal officials.

The 30-day detention was imposed as investigative measure while the inquiry continues. Prosecutors and investigators are gathering evidence and will decide on further procedural steps in the coming days.

Photo: СДК.МК)