Tytti Yli-Viikari, who was dismissed from her role as auditor general by Parliament on Wednesday, now faces a police investigation into a suspected case of aggravated abuse of office.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is investigating salary payments made by the National Audit Office (VTV) to an official during the early stages of Yli-Viikari's tenure as auditor general. The official received a salary for two years despite having no work obligation.
Yle has learned that investigating officers plan to speak with Yli-Viikari about the matter at some point this week, as she and another VTV director are suspected by the NBI of aggravated abuse of office.
In addition to this charge, Yli-Viikari is further suspected of preparing a means of payment fraud as well as breach of duty in connection with her use of Finnair Bonus flight points.
"Both suspects have denied that they have committed any crimes during the course of the investigation," said Tommi Reen, the investigator leading the probe, adding that officers will collect final statements over the coming weeks.
"We will try to complete the investigation by August," Reen said.
Yle was unable to reach Yli-Viikari for a comment on the investigation.