AOG Technics Scandal Unveiled: Director Arrested in UK Fraud Office Raid
In a significant turn of events, the UK Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has launched a criminal investigation into the alleged fraudulent activities of AOG Technics, a prominent aircraft supplier. The investigation culminated in a raid on a London residential address on December 6, 2023, resulting in the apprehension of a key figure for questioning.
While the SFO’s official statement withheld the identity of the individual in custody, numerous reports suggest that the person detained is none other than AOG Technics’ director, Jose Alejandro Zamora Yrala, a 35-year-old Venezuelan national. The targeted address for the search warrant was reportedly Yrala’s residence, and the operation involved officers from the National Crime Agency. During the raid, law enforcement seized significant “material” related to the investigation.
The allegations against AOG Technics involve the sale of aircraft parts supported by fraudulent documentation. It is claimed that these parts were subsequently installed on CFM56 engines, which power older-generation B737 and A320-type aircraft. The potential consequences of this alleged fraud are far-reaching, leading to the grounding of at least 126 aircraft globally as airlines take preventive measures to remove the impacted engines.
Nick Ephgrave, Director of the SFO, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “This investigation deals with very serious allegations of fraud involving the supply of aircraft parts, the consequences of which are potentially far reaching.”
CFM International, the joint venture between Safran and GE Aerospace responsible for manufacturing CFM56 engines, has initiated legal action against AOG Technics. The company has actively collaborated with relevant authorities, emphasizing the priority of safety in the aviation industry.
Jose Alejandro Zamora Yrala, previously known for his involvement in the European party circuit as a techno DJ and music producer, transitioned to the aviation industry with stints at engine maintenance firm AJW and the UK arm of GA Telesis. In 2015, he established AOG Technics, operating from a London serviced office address.
Disturbingly, media investigations this year have exposed the creation of fake online profiles for non-existent AOG Technics employees. These ghost profiles were also identified as signatories to documentation accompanying parts supplied by the company, raising further concerns about the integrity of AOG Technics’ operations.
The fallout from this scandal continues to unfold as the aviation industry grapples with the potential impact on global supply chains and the imperative to ensure the safety of aircraft components.