Økokrim (Norwegian National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime) is Norway’s central unit for combating financial and environmental crime. Combining police investigation and prosecutorial functions, it operates within the Norwegian Police Service and the national prosecuting authority. Økokrim handles large and complex cases nationwide, including corruption, fraud, money laundering, tax and duty evasion, and violations of environmental legislation. It coordinates with police districts and supervisory bodies, provides expertise and intelligence support, and pursues confiscation of criminal proceeds.
For the chemical and process industries, Økokrim enforces criminal provisions related to pollution, hazardous substances, and waste management, including serious breaches of the Pollution Control Act and related regulations. Its investigations and prosecutions can result in fines, confiscation, and court proceedings that influence compliance practices and risk management for industrial operators in Norway.
Equinor disputes a NOK 220M fine and NOK 500M confiscation claim for historical emissions, arguing it self-reported and addressed the issues. The case will proceed to court.
