The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has announced an investigation into the conduct of former Canterbury Bankstown Council employee Benjamin Webb and former council contractor Pietro Cossu, as part of Operation Mantis. The investigation will focus on whether Webb and Cossu used their official functions to benefit themselves by using a company called PMLV Invest and Consulting for recruitment subcontractor services without disclosing their financial interests in the company. The ICAC is also looking into whether the pair attempted to influence the awarding of council contracts to another company, General Works and Construction Pty Ltd, in a dishonest manner. The investigation will cover the period between May 2020 and December 2022.
This announcement marks the first time the investigation has been made public, indicating the seriousness of the allegations against Webb and Cossu. The ICAC is known for its rigorous investigations into corruption and misconduct in public office in New South Wales. The public inquiry into the conduct of Webb and Cossu will be presided over by ICAC Commissioner Helen Murrell SC and is expected to last three weeks. The inquiry will delve into the details of how the pair may have abused their positions at the council for personal gain and whether they acted dishonestly in the process.
The investigation is focusing on whether Webb and Cossu unfairly favored a second company, General Works and Construction Pty Ltd, by attempting to influence the awarding of council contracts to the company. It is alleged that the pair used the first company, PMLV Invest and Consulting, to subcontract council contracts to General Works and Construction for their own benefit or for the benefit of others. The ICAC will scrutinize the conduct of Webb and Cossu during the specified period to determine the extent of any misuse of their official functions and whether any laws or regulations were breached in the process.
The upcoming public inquiry will allow for a thorough examination of the allegations against Webb and Cossu, providing an opportunity for witnesses to come forward and provide evidence related to the case. The ICAC Commissioner will lead the inquiry and ensure that all relevant information is considered in a fair and impartial manner. The investigation into the conduct of the former Canterbury Bankstown Council employee and contractor sends a strong message that corruption and misconduct in public office will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable for their actions. The outcome of the inquiry will shed light on the extent of any wrongdoing and pave the way for potential penalties or consequences for Webb and Cossu if they are found guilty of breaching ethical and legal standards.
