Tory donor named in global money laundering investigation
The BBC has revealed Javad Marandi, a prominent businessman and major donor to the Conservative Party, is a key figure in a global money laundering investigation. Marandi has been in a legal battle with the BBC to remain anonymous. Although he strongly denies any wrongdoing, he has been implicated in an extensive money-laundering scheme linked to a wealthy Azerbaijani oligarch. It is important to note that Marandi is not facing criminal charges.
The BBC says the court’s decision to lift reporting restrictions marks a significant milestone for press freedom amidst increasing privacy laws in the legal system. A spokesperson for Marandi expressed disappointment that his name has been publicly released and suggests there could be potential damage to his reputation.
National Crime Agency (NCA) conducted an investigation into Marandi’s foreign interests, uncovering their role in the complex money-laundering operation involving the Azerbaijani oligarch.
In January 2022, a judge authorised the seizure of £5.6 million ($7 million) from the London-based family of Javanshir Feyziyev, an Azerbaijani parliament member. The judge determined that the family’s British bank accounts had received funds derived from the elaborate money-laundering scheme. While the family denies the allegations, the recent ruling by the High Court allows Marandi’s identity to be disclosed, recognising his significance in the NCA’s case.
