Four people arrested as part of inquiry into Gulf state buying EU influence

Belgian police seized cash and searched 16 properties across Brussels during major investigation into corruption and money laundering

Four people have been arrested as part of an investigation into corruption and money laundering centred on a Gulf state's attempt to buy influence at the European parliament, Belgian prosecutors have said.

Belgian police seized 600,000 (515,000) in cash, computers and mobile phones after searches at 16 properties across Brussels on Friday morning, according to a statement from Belgium's federal prosecutor. It said the searches were part of a major investigation into alleged criminal organisation, corruption and money laundering.