DP World removes CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem over Epstein ties

Dubai-based ports and logistics major DP World has dismissed its long-serving chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem following the release of new documents by the US Department of Justice that reference his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, The Maritime Telegraph reports.

 

The newly disclosed files contain statements in which Epstein allegedly described Sulayem as a close personal friend and one of his most trusted associates. The documents also include emails that refer to pornography and escorts. After the revelations surfaced, several financial institutions in Canada and the United Kingdom put planned partnerships and future projects with DP World on hold while they review the situation.

 

In response, the company announced immediate leadership changes. Essa Kazim has been appointed chairman, while Yuvraj Narayan takes over as group chief executive. The decision brings to an end Sulayem’s decades-long career at DP World, including almost 20 years as CEO.

 

During his tenure, Sulayem oversaw a period of rapid international growth. DP World expanded its terminal portfolio worldwide and strengthened its standing in global container trade and logistics.

 

Picture: US Dept of Justice