Portuguese official accused of embezzling €150,000 in lavish meal expenses
Isaltino Morais, a senior figure in Oeiras Municipal Council, faces serious allegations of misusing public funds. Prosecutors claim he authorised thousands of euros in meal expenses for himself and others between 2017 and 2024. The council has denied any wrongdoing, insisting all spending followed legal rules. According to the indictment, Morais created a system to divert municipal money for personal benefit. Over 1,400 meals, some costing more than €900 each, were paid for with public funds. These included lavish lunches and dinners featuring seafood, drinks, and even tobacco at restaurants across Oeiras, Lisbon, Mafra, Cascais, and Sintra.
Morais allegedly approved payment orders to ensure full reimbursement of these expenses. He also allowed other council members and officials to follow the same practice. Prosecutors now demand he repay €70,000 individually and a further €79,000 jointly with the other accused. If found guilty, Morais and the officials involved could lose their positions. The Oeiras Municipal Council maintains that all working meals complied with regulations.
The case centres on meal expenses totalling tens of thousands of euros over seven years. Prosecutors argue the funds were improperly used, while the council insists the spending was lawful. A court decision will determine whether Morais and others must repay the money and face further penalties.
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