Alleged Wonga plot mastermind dies at home after accident

THE secretive businessman accused of masterminding the infamous Wonga coup in West Africa has died after suffering a fall at his London home.

Ely Calil, 72, is reported to have fallen down the stairs at his multimillion-pound property in Holland Park, west London, breaking his neck.

The tycoon, nicknamed “The Cardinal”, was embroiled in the failed plot to overthrow the president of oil-rich Equatorial Guinea in 2004.

He was accused of being the brains behind the failed coup by Simon Mann, the Old Etonian and former SAS officer, who led the mercenaries and served several years in African jails.

Mr Calil always denied any involvement, insisting that although he supported a regime change in the enclave, Mr Mann must take the blame.

Scotland Yard said Mr Calil’s death was “unexplained” but not suspicious.