Article: Correction Announced on the UK Sanctions List - Willy NGOMA’s Designation Remains in Place
Date: 23rd February 2024
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) made an important announcement on 23rd February 2024, regarding a correction on the list of individuals subject to asset freezes under the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) sanctions regulations. The correction pertains to Major Willy NGOMA, military spokesperson for the M23 militia group in the DRC.
FCDO’s Announcement
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) announced the correction on the UK Sanctions List regarding Major Willy NGOMA, who is:
- Position: Major in the military
- Role: Spokesperson for M23, a rebel group implicated in human rights abuses and international humanitarian law violations
- Born: Democratic Republic of the Congo
- DOB: –/–/1974
Correction Details
The correction to NGOMA’s designation information includes the missing address that has now been corrected with the country “Democratic Republic of the Congo.” This update reinforces the ongoing asset freeze on NGOMA.
Impact of the Asset Freeze
The asset freeze on NGOMA restricts:
- Any financial dealings with him
- Provision of funds and economic resources
Under the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018, the restrictions apply to:
- Opening or maintaining accounts
- Providing financial services
- Making available funds or economic resources
Financial institutions and other relevant parties must report any findings related to NGOMA to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and remain in compliance with these financial and trade sanctions.
NGOMA’s Designation
NGOMA was designated under Sanctions Act paragraphs 7 (c), 7 (e), and 7 (h) of UN Security Council resolution 2293 (2016). These designations target political and military leaders of Congolese militias that hinder disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration processes, commit human rights violations or abuses, and act on behalf of or direct designated entities.
Additional Information
For further information on the DRC sanctions regime and related regulations, please visit the Customs and Excise pages of the Isle of Man Government website. The UN Sanctions Committee webpage provides additional details on these measures regarding the Democratic Republic of the Congo.