Madagascar President’s Chief of Staff Caught in Bribery Sting
The Chief of Staff to Madagascar’s President, Romy Andrianarisoa, 46, and French businessman Philippe Tabuteau, 54, have been slammed with bribery charges after a swift National Crime Agency (NCA) crackdown.
Bribe Demands Exposed
The pair allegedly tried to shake down UK mining giant Gemfields for a hefty bribe to secure mining licences in Madagascar. They reportedly demanded a whopping CHF 250,000 (£225,000) upfront plus a juicy 5% equity stake in the deal. Gemfields blew the whistle, tipping off the NCA to kick off the investigation.
Arrest at London Meeting
Andrianarisoa and Tabuteau were nabbed on the spot in London’s Victoria area last Thursday during a suspected bribery attempt. The NCA, working hand-in-hand with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), secured immediate charges by Friday evening thanks to quick legal advice.
Court Drama & Official Comments
The duo faced the music at court on Saturday and were locked up ahead of their next hearing at Southwark Crown Court on 8 September.
Andy Kelly, head of the NCA’s International Corruption Unit, said: “This operation shows the power of industry cooperation. Gemfields’ swift action was key to getting this case moving.”
Joanne Jakymec, Chief Crown Prosecutor, added: “The CPS authorised charges after carefully reviewing NCA evidence. These criminal proceedings are active and both accused have the right to a fair trial. It’s vital that reporting does not prejudice the case.”
