US Sanctions Two Companies Linked to Russian-Backed Wagner Group in Central African Republic
Washington, D.C.
The United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has taken action against two companies in the Central African Republic (CAR) for enabling Russian-backed Wagner Group security operations and illicit mining activities.
Designated Companies
Two companies, Mining Industries SARLU and Logistique Economique Etrangere SARLU, were designated today under Executive Order 14024 for their links to the Wagner Group. The Wagner Group is a private military company backed by Russia and has been responsible for destabilizing activities in Africa, including human rights abuses and illegal resource extraction.
Accusations
The two companies are accused of providing support to the Wagner Group’s operations in CAR, which include:
- Leasing aircraft
- Importing chemicals used in mining
- Using resources to advance illicit mining endeavors (Mining Industries)
- Receiving heavy materials from a Russia-based company linked to the Wagner Group (Logistique Economique Etrangere SARLU)
Previous Sanctions
The US has previously sanctioned several companies linked to the Wagner Group in CAR, including:
- Lobaye Invest
- Midas Ressources SARLU
- Bois Rouge SARLU
Additionally, the US Department of State has designated the Wagner Group for its activities in Ukraine.
Quote from Brian E. Nelson
“This action sends a clear message that the United States will not tolerate Russian-backed destabilizing activities in Africa,” said Brian E. Nelson, Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. “We will continue to use our sanctions authorities to disrupt those supporting Russia’s agenda.”
Consequences of Designation
As a result of today’s action:
- All property and interests in property of the designated persons are blocked
- All US persons are prohibited from engaging in transactions with these entities unless authorized by a general or specific license
The Wagner Group’s Activities
The Wagner Group has been responsible for widespread human rights abuses and has engaged in illegal activities across multiple countries in Africa. The US has imposed sanctions on numerous individuals and entities linked to the group, including companies in Russia, Ukraine, and other African nations.