The Norwegian police is investigating a corruption case involving Statoil, a Norwegian oil giant, and a Stavanger-based helicopter operator Norsk Helicopterservice.
By Statoil’s admission on Thursday night, the company itself, following information received, started investigating an employee for possible violation of company policies.
“Statoil has given the police information about the case, and the police has decided to open investigation against the employee and a person in Norsk Helikopterservice suspected of serious corruption,” Statoil said.
The company did not say what the allegations were.
Statoil said: “It is important to underline that Statoil’s internal investigation is not concluded, no legal charges have been carried out and no judgment has been passed in the case.
The police has asked from Statoil to put a halt to any further interna l investigation efforts, in order not to interfere with the ongoing police investigation.
“Statoil will of course cooperate with the police in their investigation. The employee has been temporarily suspended from his position,” the company said.
Following these circumstances, Satoil said, the company has decided to cancel a letter of intent with Norsk Helikopterservice for a backup Search and Rescue helicopter.
Statoil has no other activities with Norsk Helikopterservice. The company’s SAR capacity without this backup helicopter meets current requirements, the company said.