Today, the Serious Fraud Office (“SFO”) offered no evidence against Graeme Hossie, Rachel Rhodes and Ariel Armon, bringing to an end an investigation that began over eight and a half years ago and resulting in the acquittal of all individuals charged.
The SFO case alleged that between 2009 and 2014, Graeme Hossie, Rachel Rhodes and Ariel Armon paid bribes in Sierra Leone so that London Mining would receive favourable treatment in the progression of its mining business. The defendants have always denied the allegations and maintained their innocence throughout.
The case was first before the Court in June 2023, and the trial was scheduled to begin in April 2026. However, in December 2025 the trial was adjourned when disclosure issues arose, and following a review, the Director of the SFO has concluded that there is no longer a realistic prospect of conviction. Accordingly, the SFO today offered no evidence against all three defendants.
Philip Evans KC, Philip Stott and Zara Brawley acted for Graeme Hossie (instructed by Steven Bird of Hodge, Jones & Allen Solicitors LLP). Mr Hossie was previously represented by Adrian Darbishire KC, Tom Doble and Anita Clifford (instructed by Johanna Walsh of Mishcon de Reya LLP)
Rachna Gokani and Kathryn Hughes (led by James Hines KC) acted for Rachel Rhodes (instructed by Shula De Jersey of BCL Solicitors LLP)
Selva Ramasamy KC and Oliver Mosley (together with Duncan Jones of 25 Bedford Row) acted for Ariel Armon (instructed by Christopher Houssemayne du Boulay of Hickman & Rose).
Philip Evans KC
Selva Ramasamy KC
Oliver Mosley
Philip Stott
Zara Brawley 
Adrian Darbishire KC
Tom Doble
Anita Clifford
Rachna Gokani
Kathryn Hughes