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BP connection in release of Lockerbie bomber

Posted on Jul 16, 2010

BP’s own written statement verifies that it pushed its concerns upon the British government about how not transferring convicted terrorist Abdel Baset al-Megrahi to Libya would risk the company’s $20 billion offshore drilling deal.

Megrahi was convicted for the December 21, 1988 Pan-Am Flight 103 explosion over Lockerbie, Scotland that killed 259 passengers and crew as well as 11 residents hit by falling plane parts. A Scottish court sentenced him to life in prison. However, in 2009 physicians mistaken declared he only had three months to live from cancer and the Scots gave him a compassionate medical leave. Now in Libya, Megrahi has had a “miraculous” recovery and doctors say he could live another 10 years.

There was outrage among victims’ family members and opposition by the U.S. government at the time of his transfer, but Scotland had the final say.

BP denies it had any direct involvement in the decision to release Megrahi. However, the company released a statement Wednesday confirming it told the British government in 2007 that “we were concerned about the slow progress that was being made in concluding a prisoner transfer agreement with Libya” and “were aware that this could have a negative impact on UK commercial interests” which included “BP’s exploration agreement” with the Libyan government.”

BP announced that it is proceeding with its plans to drill in Libya’s Gulf of Sidra.

Source: Yahoo News

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