French Police Raid Rothschild Bank Amid Epstein Links: What You Need to Know
French police have raided the Paris offices of Edmond de Rothschild bank as part of an investigation into suspected corruption involving Fabrice Aidan, a former diplomat with close ties to Jeffrey Epstein and Terje Rød-Larsen. The raid highlights the widening net of scrutiny surrounding Epstein’s network and its potential reach into high-level financial and political circles.
Aidan’s Connections to Epstein and Rød-Larsen
Fabrice Aidan appears in over 200 documents released as part of the Epstein files, raising concerns about his interactions with the convicted sex offender. Aidan served as a close advisor to Terje Rød-Larsen, working with him at the Institute for Peace and International Security (IPI) and within the United Nations system until 2013. He was Rød-Larsen’s chief of staff for a period, according to Rød-Larsen’s lawyer, John Christian Elden.
Following his time at the UN, Aidan joined Edmond de Rothschild, one of Switzerland’s largest private banks, remaining there until 2016. The French investigation centers on suspicions of complicity in corruption of a foreign public official, though the identity of the official remains undisclosed.
The Epstein-Rothschild Link
Documents reveal extensive contact between Epstein and Ariane de Rothschild, the head of Edmond de Rothschild. Epstein reportedly received tens of millions of dollars from the bank in connection with work related to US authorities. Rød-Larsen reportedly introduced Rothschild to Epstein around 2013.
Financial Transactions and Allegations
Emails suggest Aidan was involved in facilitating practical and administrative tasks for Rød-Larsen. In December 2015, Epstein transferred $250,000 to Rød-Larsen, with Aidan assisting in the logistical aspects of the transfer. Rød-Larsen’s lawyer has confirmed the payment was a form of compensation but has not detailed its purpose.
According to French newspaper Mediapart, Aidan and Epstein maintained contact from 2010 to 2016. Aidan’s lawyer, Jade Dousselin, has previously denied any wrongdoing related to the Epstein case.
Parallel Norwegian Investigation
This French investigation runs parallel to an ongoing inquiry by Norway’s Økokrim, which is investigating Mona Juul and Terje Rød-Larsen for suspected gross corruption. Økokrim is collaborating with authorities in multiple countries as part of this investigation.
FAQ
What is the nature of the allegations against Fabrice Aidan?
Aidan is suspected of complicity in the corruption of a foreign public official. The identity of the official has not been disclosed.
What is Terje Rød-Larsen’s involvement?
Rød-Larsen received a $250,000 payment from Epstein in 2015, facilitated in part by Aidan. He is currently under investigation by Norwegian authorities for suspected corruption.
What is Edmond de Rothschild’s response?
Edmond de Rothschild has not yet publicly commented on the French raid or the allegations.
What is Økokrim investigating?
Økokrim is investigating Mona Juul and Terje Rød-Larsen for suspected gross corruption.
Did Rød-Larsen introduce Epstein to Rothschild?
Yes, according to the bank, Rød-Larsen introduced Ariane de Rothschild to Jeffrey Epstein around 2013.
Where can I find more information?
You can find more information from LuxTimes, The Jerusalem Post, and The Sun.
