Allegations of Bribery between Laos and Sanum Investments Ltd

Laos made several allegations of bribery against individuals associated with Sanum Investments Ltd (Sanum), including Madam Sengkeo and Mr. Baldwin. The following are the key points related to each allegation:

Alleged Bribe to Stop the E&Y Audit

• In 2009, Laotian government officials allegedly received USD270,000 to stop an audit by Ernst & Young (E&Y).
• The Tribunals found that it was more likely than not that Madam Sengkeo was used as a conduit to bribe government officials, but the burden of proof for “clear and convincing evidence” was not met.
• The lack of investigation by the Laotian government into potential bribe-takers was criticized.

Alleged Bribes to Shut Down the Thanaleng Slot Club

• Baldwin allegedly paid bribes through a consultant, Mr. Anousith Thepsimuong, to shut down the Thanaleng Slot Club as a pressure tactic.
• The Tribunals found that there was no clear evidence of bribery, but it was more likely than not that a bribe was offered.

Alleged Bribe to Madam Sengkeo to Prevent Her from Testifying

• Baldwin requested permission to make a USD575,000 “personal loan” to Madam Sengkeo, which was denied due to the importance of her testimony.
• The Tribunals noted that Baldwin’s actions were suspicious and may have been intended to prevent Madam Sengkeo from testifying.

Conclusion

Overall, the document suggests that Laos made various allegations of bribery against individuals associated with Sanum. However, the evidence was not always conclusive, and the Tribunals applied different standards of proof in each case. Some allegations were more likely than not to be true, while others did not meet the burden of proof for “clear and convincing evidence.”