Zhong Guo Xin Wen Wang·2026-01-14 13:55Core Viewpoint - The case of Li Yong, former General Manager of China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), highlights significant issues of cross-border corruption within state-owned enterprises, with over 83% of illicit funds originating from overseas [2][4]. Group 1: Corruption Details - Li Yong was involved in a long-term corruption scheme, managing numerous overseas projects and believing that funds hidden abroad would be difficult to trace [2][4]. - The investigation revealed that a significant portion of the illicit funds was funneled through complex international banking routes, involving multiple countries and offshore accounts [8]. - Li Yong's relationship with businessman Ren Fengde facilitated corrupt practices, including the use of a "middleman" to disguise bribes as legitimate business transactions [6][8]. Group 2: Methods of Corruption - Li Yong exploited high intermediary commissions in overseas projects, colluding with unscrupulous agents to ensure excessive fees, which he then shared [9][11]. - A specific incident involved Li Yong negotiating inflated transaction costs for a drilling platform, where he received millions in bribes disguised as "thank you" payments [6][9]. Group 3: Consequences and Legal Actions - Following a tip-off about Ren Fengde's detention, Li Yong attempted to destroy evidence of his corruption by burning cash, but ultimately realized the futility of this action [12]. - Li Yong was later detained and sentenced to 14 years in prison for accepting bribes, along with a fine of 3 million RMB [12].