Mohamed's decision to leave the consortium could reduce complications for the Texas-based company should U.S. authorities decide to levy sanctions on the pair or file an indictment. The construction of the shore base is part of Exxon’s efforts to expand oil production off Guyana’s coast, an important part of the company's growth plans. Following the Reuters report in July, Exxon had made an internal decision to remain neutral on the Mohameds, according to four sources with knowledge of the matter. Nazar was quoted in local media on Tuesday saying his decision to leave the consortium was based on religious beliefs. Reporting by Sabrina Valle; Editing by Richard Valdmanis, Richard Chang and Aurora EllisOur Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

---

Persons: Nazar Mohamed, Azruddin, Mohamed's, Alistair Routledge, Mohamed, Exxon, Andron Alphonso, Nicholas Deygoo, Boyer, Jan De Nul, Nazar, Washington, “, ”, George McEachern, Sabrina Valle, Richard Valdmanis, Richard Chang, Aurora Ellis Organizations: Exxon, Exxon Mobil Corp, Reuters, Mohamed’s, NRG Holdings, Company, U.S, FBI, International Corruption, Thomson Locations: Guyana HOUSTON, American, Texas, U.S, United States, Venezuela, Guyana, Vreed, European