Financial Crime World

Mauritius Imposes Strict Sanctions on Listed Parties

Mauritius has taken a firm stance against listed parties by imposing strict sanctions under its Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism Act. This is in compliance with United Nations sanctions, aimed at preventing illegal activities and maintaining the country’s financial system integrity.

Travel Ban for Listed Parties

As per Section 36 of the Act, a travel ban will apply immediately to listed parties, excluding those who are citizens or residents of Mauritius. This means that a listed party will not be allowed entry into or transit through the country as long as they remain on the relevant United Nations Sanctions List.

Prohibitions and Reporting Requirements

  • Dealing with Funds or Assets: Section 23 prohibits dealing with funds or assets owned or controlled by listed parties, including those derived from such funds or assets. Any person holding, controlling, or having custody or possession of such funds or assets must notify the National Sanctions Secretariat within 24 hours of receiving a notice issued under Section 18(1) of the Act.
  • Making Funds or Assets Available: Section 24 prohibits making funds or other assets available to listed parties, including those acting on their behalf or at their direction. This includes providing financial or related services directly or indirectly.
  • Supplying Arms and Related Materiel: Under Section 35, it is an offence for any person to supply, sell, or transfer arms and related materiel to listed parties.

Reporting Obligations

The sanctions require reporting persons and members of the public to exercise caution and vigilance in order to ensure that they do not support activities, individuals, or organizations subject to United Nations sanctions. They are legally obligated to comply with the requirements of the Act and take all necessary steps for its implementation.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with sections 23, 24, 35, and 36 of the Act will constitute a criminal offence. Queries or notifications under Section 23(4) should be addressed to the National Sanctions Secretariat at Room 406, Level 4, New Government Centre, Port Louis.

Commitment to United Nations Sanctions

Mauritius is committed to upholding United Nations sanctions and ensuring that its financial system is not used to support illegal activities. The country’s anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism regime is designed to prevent and detect such activities.

Resources for More Information

Narrative summaries of the reasons for listing are available on the United Nations Security Council website at https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/narrative-summaries.