Offshore Empire Uncovered: Bigio and Abdallah’s Web of Companies and Influence

Exclusive Investigation Reveals Vast Network of Offshore Companies

An investigation by our team has uncovered a complex web of offshore companies linked to Gilbert Bigio and Sherif Abdallah, two powerful businessmen with ties to Haiti. The network was used to evade taxes and commit other financial crimes, according to experts.

Bigio’s Connections

Bigio, who served as Israel’s honorary consul in Haiti for over 20 years, had connections to at least 12 offshore companies, many registered in the Bahamas.
He also set up two trusts, secretive entities that can provide tax benefits and often do not require disclosure to governments. The trusts were used to benefit members of his family living in the United States.

Abdallah’s Connections

Abdallah, who represented Italy as honorary consul in Haiti for over a decade, had connections to at least four companies registered in the Bahamas.
He also established a company in the British Virgin Islands to own a $1 million yacht named Karisa.

Investigation Reveals Lack of Transparency and Accountability

The investigation found that both Bigio and Abdallah used their influential positions as honorary consuls to shield their financial dealings from scrutiny. They were aided by law firms and private bankers who provided them with high-level services, including the opening of bank accounts in Switzerland and the use of diplomatic passports.

Examples of Abuse of Power

Bigio’s diplomatic passport allowed him to travel freely and set up an offshore company in 2016.
His wife, Monique, also used the passport to help establish the company.

The Impact on Haiti’s Financial System

The investigation has raised serious questions about the lack of transparency and accountability in Haiti’s financial system. “Many of those who dominate the economy in Haiti are also honorary consuls,” said university professor Jean-Vernet. “Police won’t search their homes or their places of work because they believe them to be protected as part of the honorary consulate. They have diplomatic power.”

Key Findings

Gilbert Bigio and Sherif Abdallah were connected to at least 20 offshore companies.
Bigio set up two trusts, secretive entities that can provide tax benefits and often do not require disclosure to governments.
Abdallah established a company in the British Virgin Islands to own a $1 million yacht named Karisa.
Both Bigio and Abdallah used their influential positions as honorary consuls to shield their financial dealings from scrutiny.
The investigation has raised serious questions about the lack of transparency and accountability in Haiti’s financial system.

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