US steps up corruption probe into BHP Billiton
By DAVID WINNING
SYDNEY -- US authorities have stepped up an investigation into potential breaches of anticorruption laws by BHP Billiton, including its sponsorship of the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, the mining company said Friday.
BHP said the US Securities and Exchange Commission and Department of Justice have now detailed issues that could lead to unspecified "enforcement actions". It said talks with US authorities are ongoing.
"The issues relate primarily to matters in connection with previously terminated exploration and development efforts, as well as hospitality provided as part of the company's sponsorship of the 2008 Beijing Olympics," BHP said in a statement.
BHP said an internal investigation launched several years ago found evidence regarding possible bribery of foreign government officials.
Dow Jones Newswires
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