Olympus CEO resigns amid allegations of illegal drug purchases

Oct 28 (NHK) - Japanese medical equipment maker Olympus has announced the resignation of its chief executive officer Stefan Kaufmann.

Olympus says Kaufmann stepped down at the request of the board of directors. This followed an investigation into allegations he had bought illegal drugs.

The firm's statement says Kaufmann resigned from all positions effective immediately.

He joined Olympus in 2003 and served as CEO and president since last year.

Olympus says the board unanimously determined that Kaufmann likely engaged in behaviors that were inconsistent with the firm's code of conduct.

Executive Chairperson Takeuchi Yasuo will act as interim CEO.

The firm's appointment committee will discuss Kaufmann's successor.

The statement says Olympus apologizes for the concern caused to shareholders and customers.

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