Norway’s economic crimes police unit, Økokrim, announced last night that it has launched an investigation into former Prime Minister and Chairman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee Thorbjørn Jagland on suspicion of aggravated corruption.
Økokrim stated that the decision to open an investigation into Jagland — who also previously served as Secretary General of the Council of Europe — is based on information revealed in newly published files related to Jeffrey Epstein.
Økokrim Director Pål Løseth said in a statement:
“Given that he served as Chairman of the Nobel Committee and Secretary General of the Council of Europe during the period covered by the published documents, we believe there are reasonable grounds to open an investigation.”
No charges have been filed against Jagland at this stage. The investigation will examine, among other issues, whether he received gifts, travel benefits, or loans in connection with his official duties.
Lifting of Immunity on the Agenda
Police have also requested that Jagland’s immunity, which he holds due to his former position as head of an international organization, be lifted. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs accepted this request.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said in a statement:
“It is important to establish the facts of this case,” adding, “For this reason, I have decided that Norway will submit a proposal to the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers to lift Jagland’s immunity.”
Jagland is one of the prominent Norwegian figures whose ties to Epstein have come under renewed scrutiny. Another is Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who previously said that continuing her association with Epstein after his conviction was a poor decision.