Aberdeen Energy Firm Settles Russia Sanctions Breach
An Aberdeen-based energy services company, Petrofac Facilities Management Limited (PFML), has paid over £569,157 to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) following breaches of Russia sanctions regulations.
The breaches occurred during 2022 and 2023 as PFML was in the process of winding down its operations in Russia. The company entered into a "compound settlement," which allows for resolution without court proceedings.
HMRC reported that PFML supplied industrial goods subject to sanctions to individuals connected with Russia and provided technical assistance related to those goods.
This case marks the first instance where the UK government's tax authority has publicly named a company accepting such a penalty.
HMRC noted that PFML self-reported the breaches and fully cooperated with the investigation.
The department also highlighted that publicly naming the company represents a change in how HMRC manages compound settlements concerning strategic exports and sanctions violations.
Official Statement from HMRC
"Non-compliance with Russia sanctions is a serious offence and together with our international partners, the UK government has implemented the most severe package of sanctions ever imposed on a major economy.
"Naming those involved brings us into line with other enforcement partners while sending a clear message on the consequence of breaching sanctions rules."
These remarks were made by Edwige Hill, deputy director in HMRC's fraud investigation service.
