Financial Crime World

Mozambique Enhances Counter-Terrorism Efforts with New Law

Maputo, Mozambique - In a significant move to bolster its counter-terrorism efforts, Mozambique has introduced new legislation aimed at strengthening its sanctions regime. This law sets out the mechanism for identifying targets for designation based on the criteria outlined in United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1373.

Key Provisions of the Law

  • The Attorney General is responsible for receiving designation requests from foreign jurisdictions and making determinations within 30 days of receipt.
  • Mozambique has adopted an evidentiary standard of “reasonable grounds” when deciding whether to make a designation, without requiring a criminal investigation, indictment, or conviction.
  • The law grants the Attorney General the power to request that foreign jurisdictions comply with designations made by Mozambique, providing relevant information and statements of case as required.

Targeted Financial Sanctions

  • Upon receipt of designated individuals or entities from the UN list, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs transmits the list to the Attorney General and Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), which in turn notifies supervisory authorities and freezes funds or assets without delay.
  • All financial institutions and designated non-financial businesses and professions are required to freeze funds or assets without delay and without prior notice.

International Standards

  • Mozambique’s efforts have been praised for their comprehensive approach to combating terrorism, including the scope of application and requirements for freezing funds or assets.
  • The law prohibits providing economic resources or financial services to designated individuals or entities, unless previously authorized or notified under relevant UN resolutions.

Commitment to International Best Practices

Mozambique’s new legislation demonstrates a commitment to implementing international standards and best practices in the area of counter-terrorism. This development is a significant step forward for Mozambique’s efforts to strengthen its sanctions regime and combat terrorism.