Simon Andriesz, a former British banker and whistleblower who had raised questions over US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s alleged links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, has died by suicide, according to reports.Andriesz, 57, was previously a managing director at Wall Street firm BGC Group, where Lutnick served as chief executive. His death was confirmed by Andy Agathangelou, founder of the Transparency Task Force, a campaign group that had hosted events involving Andriesz.“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Simon Andriesz, a valued member of our community, passed away last week,” Agathangelou said, as quoted by The Banker.Andriesz had previously spoken to the BBC about evidence he said he had uncovered concerning Lutnick’s relationship with Epstein. According to the report, he told the BBC that he had found an email chain from 2018 in which Lutnick and Epstein discussed the prospects of a start-up business in which they were both involved.The allegations were examined in a BBC File on 4 Investigates episode broadcast in July, titled “The Epstein Files: Lutnick, the Royals and the British Whistleblower.”
Lutnick and Epstein
Lutnick acknowledged in February that he had visited Epstein’s private island in 2012, saying he had stopped there for lunch while travelling by boat with his family. He told the Senate Appropriations Committee that his wife, four children and nannies were also present.“I did have lunch with him as I was on a boat going across on a family vacation. My wife was with me, as were my four children and nannies… We had lunch on the island. That is true. For an hour,” Lutnick said.Lutnick had previously faced questions over his past association with Epstein. He has condemned Epstein’s crimes and said: “I unequivocally condemn the conduct attributed to Jeffrey Epstein and everyone who participated in his illegal activities. The survivors of his crimes deserve our respect and support.”
Andriesz’s last post goes viral
On August 9, Andriesz posted his last X post, where he presented links to his works and interviews. “The personal consequences of whistleblowing, and the retaliation I say followed, have been devastating for my family and me,” he wrote, adding that he would be sharing more of the evidence and the story behind what happened.
How did Andriesz die?
The circumstances leading to his death are unknown. He was living in Cornwall as of July and was confirmed dead last week, reports said.
Fundraiser by friend
John Robertson, a friend and representative of Andriesz, said he set up a GoFundMe link to help Andriesz’s son. “Simon Andriesz was a devoted father, a much-loved friend and someone who showed extraordinary courage in standing up for what he believed was right. Following Simon’s tragic death, those of us who knew and cared about him want to make sure that something positive and lasting is created for the son he leaves behind. We have established this fundraiser to support his son’s education, welfare and future opportunities. Every penny raised through this fundraiser is for Simon’s son. None of the organisers will receive or personally benefit from any of the money raised,” it said.
