US Sanctions Maldivian Individuals and Companies with Ties to ISIS and Al-Qa’ida
Washington D.C., [Date]
The US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has announced sanctions against 14 individuals and companies from the Maldives for their alleged ties to terrorist organizations ISIS and Al-Qa’ida.
Designated Individuals
- Abdulla Ali Manik
- Moosa Inas
- Abdulla Shareef
- Hussain Shamil
- Ahmed Mubeen
- Ameen Ahmed
- Yoosuf Shaheed
- Ahmed Afraah
- Mohamed Maathiu Abdul Razzaq (targeted for alleged support of ISIS)
- Ali Shafiu (targeted for ties to ISIS-K)
Designated Companies
- Multi Construction Pvt Ltd
- Larosa
- Al Athmaar
- 3ZED Investment
- Inma Maldives
- Jazeerat Almaldifi
- Dhawi Pvt Ltd
- SIAS Investment Pvt Ltd
- Fruit Plus Maldives Pvt Ltd
- Code A Partnership (targeted for alleged ownership or control by individuals with ties to terrorist organizations)
Rationale and Goals
According to the Treasury Department, the sanctions aim to disrupt the financial networks of these groups and prevent them from continuing to fund their activities. The goal is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior and disrupt the terrorist organizations’ ability to fund their activities.
Key Accusations
- Ahmed Agleel is accused of leading an al-Qa’ida cell in Maldives with ties to the Syrian-based group al-Nusrah Front.
- Ali Shiyam is being targeted for his role as a high-profile terrorist financier and leader of al-Qa’ida in Maldives.
Sanctions Imposed
The sanctions impose strict restrictions on any transactions involving these individuals or companies, including: + Blocking their assets + Prohibiting US persons from engaging in business with them + Warning financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions with the sanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselves to sanctions or be subject to an enforcement action.
Consequences
Failure to comply with these sanctions may result in severe consequences, including: + Financial penalties + Legal action + Loss of access to US markets and financial institutions