Vice Admiral Jan Reksten has announced that he has decided to step down from his post for the time being, while the so-called Siemens case is under investigation. Reksten is one of those charged in the case.
Reksten has been head of the Joint Operative Command, and responsible for all Norwegian forces deployed overseas.
Reksten announced his decision on Thursday afternoon. According to NRK, Reksten was to have been suspended from his post on Friday.
Quoting defence sourses, NRK says that Reksten has been at odds with the Central Defence leadership for some time, and not only because of the charges of alleged corruption.
The Norwegian National Authority for Investigation of Economic Crime (Okokrim) has alleged that Siemens, together with several other firms, have given defence personnel gifts and luxury trips in order to obtain orders for goods and equipment.
Flag Commander Arne Morten Groenningsaeter, who has held a central position in the Department of Defence, has also decided to step down, and take a leave of absence.
(NRK)
Rolleiv Solhom
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