Madagascan president’s aid charged of bribing mining firm in UK

Madagascan president’s chief-of-staff has been charged in United Kingdom with seeking a bribe from a gem mining firm.

Romy Andrianarisoa and an associate are accused of offering the British firm Gemfields licences in Madagascar in return for around £225,000.

She and her associate, Philippe Tabuteau, have been charged with requesting, agreeing to receive or accepting a bribe.

Both were remanded in custody and are also accused of trying to land a 5% equity stake in any Gemfields Madagascar projects.

According to National Crime Agency the pair were arrested in Victoria area of central London at a meeting where they were suspected of having attempted to solicit a bribe.