Former White House strategist Steve Bannon found himself at the center of controversy when he was arrested on fraud charges. What makes this story even more intriguing is the fact that Bannon was apprehended aboard a $28 million yacht owned by a Chinese billionaire. This unexpected twist has captured the attention of the media and the public alike.
The Arrest and the Yacht
On Thursday morning, Steve Bannon was picked up by US Postal Service inspectors while on board the Lady May, a 150-foot mega yacht owned by Guo Wengui. The arrest took place in the Long Island Sound near Westbrook, Connecticut, according to reports from the Hartford Courant. This luxurious vessel, boasting an estimated value of $28 million, provided an unlikely backdrop for Bannon’s legal troubles.
Guo Wengui: A Fugitive Chinese Billionaire
Guo Wengui, also known as Miles Guo or Miles Kwok, is a Chinese billionaire who is wanted in Beijing on charges of fraud, blackmail, and bribery. He has been described as one of China’s most wanted fugitives. The Washington Post has reported on his alleged criminal activities, shedding light on the serious accusations against him. It is worth noting that Guo is the owner of the Lady May, the same yacht where Bannon was arrested.
The Lady May: A Floating Haven of Luxury
The Lady May, built in 2014, is a magnificent yacht that offers a range of luxurious amenities. In an April post, the vessel was listed for sale, showcasing its opulent features such as a fully stocked bar in the main lounge, a white marble and bleached oak interior, and five staterooms. With a maximum speed of 19 knots (22 mph) and a cruising speed of 14 knots (16 mph), the Lady May can accommodate up to 10 guests and a crew of eight. Its meticulous upkeep and lavish design make it an epitome of elegance on the high seas.
The Connection Between Bannon and Guo
The association between Steve Bannon and Guo Wengui raises questions about their relationship and the circumstances surrounding their connection. The Wall Street Journal reported that federal and state authorities are currently investigating a media venture formed by Guo and Bannon called GTV Media. This media venture has come under scrutiny, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. It remains to be seen how this investigation will unfold and what implications it may have for both Bannon and Guo.
The “We Build the Wall” Fundraiser
Bannon’s arrest stems from allegations that he misappropriated donations from the “We Build the Wall” fundraiser, a campaign aimed at funding the construction of a private wall along the US-Mexico border. Alongside Bannon, Brian Kolfage, a business partner, and two others were indicted on charges of wire fraud and other related offenses. It is important to note that this fundraiser appears to be unrelated to Guo and his involvement with the Lady May.
The Investigation Into Guo’s Business Ventures
Guo Wengui has been no stranger to legal scrutiny. In 2018, Hong Kong authorities launched an investigation into allegations that Guo embezzled $4 billion through multiple shell companies, including Hong Kong International Funds Investments Limited. This ongoing investigation adds another layer of complexity to Guo’s already troubled legal situation. It remains to be seen how these investigations will progress and whether they will have any impact on Guo’s ownership of the Lady May.
The Intriguing Videos and Hacking Allegations
Guo Wengui has actively posted videos on his YouTube channel featuring himself and Bannon at sea. These videos offer a glimpse into their association and the time they spent together on the Lady May. Furthermore, there have been reports of hacking attempts on the yacht’s communications system, with the FBI allegedly investigating the matter. The intriguing nature of these videos and the hacking allegations add an air of mystery to the already captivating story.
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