Currently reading: Daimler's £122m bribery fine
US prosecutors agree fine deal following car sales bribery admission

Daimler has pleaded guilty to corruption charges brought by the US Justice Department and Securities and Exchange Commission, agreeing to pay a $185 million (£122m) fine.

US prosecutors alleged that between 1988 and 2008, Daimler paid at least $56,m (£37m) in bribes to foreign officials in at least 22 countries. These included China, Russia, Egypt, Greece and Nigeria.

Specific bribe claims included the allegation that Daimler spent 11,000 euros (£10,000) on a luxury vacation in Europe for six Chinese officials.

In another case, Daimler is alleged to have tried to enter the Turkmenistan market by giving two armored vehicles worth at least 550,000 euros (£363,000) to a senior government official.

Speaking following the announcement of the fine, US prosecutor John Darden acknowledged Daimler's willingness to work with prosecutors.

"Daimler showed excellent co-operation," said Darden. "The company has undertaken an effort to clean its own house. That reflects a serious change of mind on part of Daimler. This deserves credit."

Daimler also sacked about 45 employees and disciplined another 300 people that were connected to the case.

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Mr£4worth 22 June 2010

Re: Daimler's £122m bribery fine

Autocar wrote:
Daimler has pleaded guilty to corruption charges brought by the US Justice Department and Securities and Exchange Commission, agreeing to pay a $185 million (£122m) fine.

US prosecutors alleged that between 1988 and 2008, Daimler paid at least $56,m (£37m) in bribes to foreign officials in at least 22 countries. These included China, Russia, Egypt, Greece and Nigeria.

Specific bribe claims included the allegation that Daimler spent 11,000 euros (£10,000) on a luxury vacation in Eur...Read the full article

Now ain't that strange. People seem comfortable with this high profile company's corrupt practices, if they weren't people would have posted comments. I've never bought a Merc, and I'm in no hurry to support this PR Driven overpriced manufacturer. Maybe now they've joined forces with Renault they might show a bit more flair in their more affordable car ranges....especially if there's no need to fritter way money on bribes.

Uncle Mellow 6 April 2010

Re: Daimler's £122m bribery fine

This came to light when Daimler-Benz joined forces with Chrysler and Chryslers auditors realised what the Germans were up to.