Financial Crime World

Democratic Republic of Congo: Update to the Sanctions List - Willy NGOMBA

February 23, 2024

Overview

An update was made to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Sanctions List, managed by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), regarding a prominent Congolese figure, Willy NGOMBA.

Context

The sanctions list comes under the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, which have been in effect in the Isle of Man since 2020. These regulations aim to freeze funds and economic resources of individuals and entities involved in human rights violations or abuses, international humanitarian law violations, or obstruction of democracy and good governance in the DRC.

Updated Entry

The entry related to Willy NGOMBA (DOB: –/–/1974) was corrected. Previously listed as a deleted entry, NGOMBA is now subject to an asset freeze. His new address is stated as being in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and he holds the positions of Major and Military spokesperson for M23.

Designation Reason

NGOMBA, the former leader of the Congolese militia M23, is officially designated for being a ‘political and military leader’ who ‘impedes the participation of his combatants in disarmament, demobilization and reintegration processes’ as stated in paragraphs 7 (c), 7 (e), and 7 (h) of resolution 2293 (2016). NGOMBA is also responsible for planning, directing, and committing acts in the DRC that constitute human rights violations or abuses or violations of international humanitarian law, as applicable – including killing and maiming, rape and other sexual violence, abduction, forced displacement, and attacks on schools and hospitals. NGOMBA is also acting on behalf of or at the direction of an entity owned or controlled by a designated individual or entity.

Compliance Obligations

Financial institutions and other persons carrying out business in the DRC must check their records for any associations or assets connected to Willy NGOMBA. If they hold funds or economic resources for NGOMBA or provide financial services to him, they are required by law to freeze those accounts and report their findings to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). Failing to comply with financial sanctions regulations or attempting to circumvent them is a criminal offense.

Relevant Websites

  • For more information on the UN measures against the DRC, readers can visit the relevant UN Sanctions Committee webpage.
  • More information about the DRC sanctions regime, including links to other financial sanctions regimes, can be found on the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website.