The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has announced sanctions against 28 individuals and businesses involved in a global gold smuggling and money laundering network based in Zimbabwe. This action, taken on International Anti-Corruption Day, is pursuant to Executive Order 13818, which targets serious human rights abuses and corruption worldwide.
Kamlesh Pattni leads the network that has facilitated illicit activities by bribing officials and using trusted supporters to mask ownership. This scheme has deprived Zimbabwean citizens of their natural resources' benefits while enriching corrupt officials and criminals.
"Across the globe, when corrupt actors like Pattni choose to exploit openings in governance structures to benefit themselves and their cronies, communities suffer and public trust is undermined," said Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Bradley T. Smith. "Corruption respects no borders and its consequences are felt worldwide."
International Anti-Corruption Day has been observed annually since 2003 following the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). The designation highlights the globalized nature of corruption and emphasizes collaboration with allies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the United Kingdom.
The FBI works with domestic partners to hold accountable those who exploit the U.S. financial market's stability. These sanctions aim to prevent criminals from accessing stolen wealth.
Throughout 2024, Treasury has implemented measures to stop corrupt actors from laundering proceeds through the U.S. financial system, designating over 100 individuals across various countries. Since 2021, more than 500 individuals have been designated for corruption-related activities.
Treasury also finalized rules this year to enhance transparency in real estate and investment adviser sectors misused by corrupt actors.
Kamlesh Pattni first gained attention during Kenya's Goldenberg scandal in the 1990s before shifting focus to Zimbabwe, where he engaged in export incentive fraud involving gold and diamonds. His network spans multiple countries, using supporters to hide interests in businesses.
Key figures include Mukesh Manuskhlal Vaya, Swetang Sinha, Rahul Sood, Mishaal Hitesh Pattni, Sanjay Keshavji Vaya, Raj Vaya Sanjay, David Paul Crosby, and Dmytro Abakumov.
Today's action requires all property related to these targets within U.S. jurisdiction be blocked. Entities owned by blocked persons are also affected. Engaging with designated individuals or entities may expose others to sanctions or enforcement actions.
OFAC emphasizes that sanctions aim for positive change rather than punishment. For removal requests from OFAC lists or further information on today's designations, refer to their official resources.
