What is the SBB indictment about?

The federal prosecutor charged a former SBB manager and accomplices over suspected procurement irregularities. The case proceeds under the presumption of innocence. Authorities now estimate recoverable damages at about CHF 5 million after some charges expired by limitation. For stakeholders, the focus is on governance, documentation quality, supplier selection, and how controls performed over time.

How does the statute of limitations affect damages?

Limitation periods cap how far back authorities can pursue certain charges or claims. In this case, some alleged offenses can no longer be prosecuted, reducing recoverable damages to about CHF 5 million. It underscores the value of early detection and robust record keeping, which preserve claims, support civil recovery, and aid insurers in assessing coverage.

What should SBB suppliers do now?

Strengthen procurement compliance packs: disclose intermediaries, confirm no kickbacks, and maintain full cost build‑ups. Seek documented conflict checks and keep time‑stamped approvals. Expect more detailed tender questions and longer reviews. Clear evidence of pricing logic, delivery capability, and clean controls can speed evaluations and improve win odds without raising legal exposure.

Does the SBB indictment change credit risk?

It can shift timing and documentation risk more than core operating risk. Lenders and trade creditors should model longer approval cycles, request stronger audit rights, and use performance security for key milestones. Monitor official court updates and any governance disclosures to adjust limits, covenants, and pricing as control expectations and procedures evolve.

Law and Government

SBB Today, February 28: Federal Indictment Over CHF5m Procurement Fraud

ByDanny Kontos February 28, 2026February 28, 2026

The SBB indictment places Switzerland’s state railway under rare legal pressure and raises fresh questions about procurement controls. The federal prosecutor has charged a former SBB manager and accomplices over alleged ex-employee fraud. Due to limitation periods, recoverable damages now stand at about CHF 5 million. Court proceedings move ahead under the presumption of innocence. We explain what the federal prosecution could mean for contractors, creditors, and taxpayers in CH, and which compliance steps merit attention now.