Financial Crime World

US Imposes Financial Sanctions on Nicaraguan Entities Linked to Ortega-Murillo Regime

Washington, D.C. - The United States has imposed financial sanctions on three Nicaragua-based entities accused of supporting the regime’s repression of civil society and its ability to profit from corrupt operations.

Designated Entities

The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has designated the following entities:

  • Training Center of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs in Managua: Accused of providing training and support to Nicaraguan security forces involved in human rights abuses.
  • Compania Minera Internacional, Sociedad Anónima (COMINTSA): Suspected of operating in the gold sector of the Nicaraguan economy, with ties to regime officials and interests.
  • Capital Mining Investment Nicaragua, Sociedad Anónima: Also suspected of operating in the gold sector and having ties to regime officials and interests.

Objectives of the Sanctions

The sanctions aim to:

  • Disrupt the regime’s ability to exploit natural resources, including gold mining
  • Crack down on human rights abuses
  • Hold accountable those responsible for undermining democracy and the rule of law in Nicaragua

Quotes from US Officials

“The United States will not stand idly by while the Ortega-Murillo regime continues to perpetuate violence and oppression,” said a senior US official. “Today’s action sends a clear message that those who support or benefit from this regime’s actions will face consequences.”

Consequences of the Sanctions

The sanctions impose strict restrictions on transactions with the designated entities, including:

  • Blocking their assets in the United States
  • Prohibiting US persons from engaging in business with them

In related news, the US Department of State has issued over 250 visa restrictions for Nicaraguan officials, while the Departments of State, Treasury, and Homeland Security have jointly released an advisory to alert the travel industry of the ways in which smugglers are facilitating illegal migration to the United States.

The sanctions come as part of a broader effort by the US government to promote responsible practices in the travel industry and prevent human trafficking.