SFO launches bribery investigation into defence firm Thales
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has initiated an investigation into suspected bribery and corruption involving the multi-national aviation and defence electronics group Thales. This probe is being conducted jointly with the French authority Parquet National Financier (PNF), with each agency operating within its respective jurisdiction. The investigation targets Thales Group, headquartered in Paris, whose UK subsidiary employs over 7,000 staff across 16 sites. SFO director, Nick Ephgrave QPM, highlighted the importance of international collaboration in combating corruption, emphasising the longstanding relationship between the SFO and PNF. The agencies have informed Thales of the investigation and are committed to rigorously pursuing all avenues in their inquiry into these serious allegations.