Cameroon's SNH Employees Face UK Court Over Glencore Bribery Scandal

Some managers and employees of Cameroon's National Hydrocarbons Corporation (SNH) will face a UK court for suspected bribery offenses linked to Swiss commodity trader Glencore. SNH's director Adolphe Moudiki revealed this development, contradicting earlier denials. Glencore has admitted to bribing SNH officials between 2011 and 2016.

In a significant development, managers and employees from Cameroon's National Hydrocarbons Corporation (SNH) are set to appear before a UK court, as they are suspected of being involved in bribery linked to Swiss commodity trader Glencore. This announcement was made by SNH's administrator and director-general, Adolphe Moudiki, who had previously denied any staff involvement.

The case has deep roots, with Glencore's UK subsidiary pleading guilty in June 2022 to seven counts of bribery related to oil operations in several African countries, including Cameroon. Alex Beard, Glencore's former head of oil, has been charged by Britain's Serious Fraud Office with conspiracies to make corrupt payments to officials, including those in Cameroon.

Cameroonian lawyer Akere Muna is calling for transparency and immediate suspension of dealings with Glencore. Despite promises of an investigation by Cameroon's anti-corruption commission, no further details have been provided. SNH's involvement, now explicitly acknowledged, tarnishes its public image and raises questions about accountability.

(With inputs from agencies.)