Norwegian prosecutors outline complex scope in diplomat corruption probe

Norway's economic crime authority, Økokrim, maintains that its corruption investigation into former diplomats Mona Juul and Terje Rød-Larsen is significantly more extensive than defense claims suggest. First State Prosecutor Marianne Bender highlighted that the prolonged timeframe stems from high-priority international cooperation, including outstanding legal assistance requests submitted to United States authorities regarding connections to late financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Local inquiries are also focusing on an Oslo residential property tied to the couple. Juul has been charged with gross corruption, and Rød-Larsen faces complicity charges; both deny any criminal liability. Addressing his historical connection to the financier, Rød-Larsen stated, "Jeg beklager i dag dypt det forholdet jeg hadde til Epstein," expressing regret for failing to cut ties sooner.

Sources: Aftenposten, Dagens Næringsliv, Finansavisen, NRK, TV 2 Nyheter