Core Insights - Francesco Mazzagatti, CEO of Viaro Energy, has earned over £36 million in two years, surpassing the combined earnings of BP and Shell executives [2][5] - Mazzagatti's compensation in 2023 was £16 million, while in 2022 it was £20.3 million [2] - Viaro Energy has faced allegations of fraud against Mazzagatti, which he denies, claiming they are part of a defamation campaign [10][11] Company Performance - Viaro Energy produced approximately 25,000 barrels of oil per day from 60 fields in the North Sea [8] - The company reported a loss of over £330 million after tax for 2022 and 2023, despite an EBITDA of just above £890 million [7] Acquisition Plans - Viaro Energy is attempting to acquire 11 gas fields from Shell for $500 million (£380 million), which it claims will enhance the UK's energy production and security [8] - The acquisition efforts are complicated by ongoing fraud allegations against Mazzagatti [8][9] Legal Issues - Mazzagatti is facing a High Court lawsuit from his former employer, Alliance Petrochemical Investment, accusing him of document forgery and misappropriation of funds [9] - He has denied all allegations, asserting that he did not misappropriate any funds or make false representations [10][11]