PARIS (AFX) - The ongoing investigation into alleged corruption by Thales has been extended to cover a contract won in 1997 in Argentina by a unit of the group, judicial sources said.

The Paris public prosecutors office opened in December two initial inquiries into alleged corruption involving contracts won by the group in France, Greece, Argentina and Cambodia.

Confirming a report that appeared in Sunday's Journal du Dimanche, the sources said investigating judges Renaud van Ruymbeke and Xaviere Simeoni are now examining the alleged payment of 25 mln usd in commissions in connection with the contract in Argentina.

The alleged payments occurred when Thales Spectrum was awarded radio frequencies being privatised by Argentina in the 1990s. The award was cancelled by a subsequent Argentine government.

Thales has categorically denied any irregularities.

paris@afxnews.com

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