Norwegian authorities have searched the home and holiday properties of former Prime Minister Thorbjoern Jagland, charging him with serious corruption. The action comes as part of an investigation into his alleged ties to pedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein, Anders Brosveet, Jagland's legal counsel, confirmed today.

The Norwegian National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime (Oekokrim) confirmed searches of Jagland's properties in a southern coastal town and the nearby Telemark mountain region. "Following the search, Jagland has been charged with serious corruption and will be questioned," announced Paal Loenseth, Oekokrim's leader.

Former Prime Minister Thorbjoern Jagland leaves his home in Oslo on 12/2. Photo: Dagbladet

The searches occurred one day after the European Council, where Jagland served as leader from 2009-2019, revoked his diplomatic immunity. Images released by Norwegian media show investigators carrying boxes into Jagland's private residence in Oslo.

Norwegian law permits charges before formal accusations, allowing police to apprehend suspects who are entitled to legal representation. Formal charges are typically issued late in proceedings, sometimes just weeks before a trial begins. "This does not alter the nature of the case, but reflects the investigative methods used by the police," Brosveet explained.

Former Prime Minister Jagland stated he is "very pleased this matter is being clarified."

The US Department of Justice released nearly 3 million additional documents on 31/1 related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. Epstein, a pedophile billionaire, died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking and other sex crimes. Norwegian authorities launched an investigation into Jagland on 6/2 after his name appeared in the publicly released Epstein files.

Documents indicate Jagland stayed with Epstein in New York in 2018, and at Epstein's Paris apartment in 2015 and 2018. He also planned a family trip to Epstein's island in 2014, but later canceled it.

Investigators carry boxes into former Prime Minister Jagland's private residence in Oslo on 12/2. Photo: Dagens Naeringsliv

Emails purportedly from Jagland to Epstein have caused a stir in Norway. The former prime minister admitted to "poor judgment" in maintaining a relationship with Epstein. The Norwegian Nobel Institute announced on 5/2 that it is awaiting Jagland's explanation regarding the mentioned connections.

Epstein was accused of sex trafficking for powerful individuals, with many victims being underage girls. However, the presence of one person in the newly released documents does not automatically imply their participation in these activities.

Nevertheless, the documents have shocked the public by revealing Epstein's vast network of influence and the identities of many powerful individuals who previously denied connections to the billionaire.

Nguyen Tien (According to Reuters, AFP, AP)