Financial Crime World

US Treasury Targets Entities and Individual for Undermining Peace in Sudan

Washington, D.C. - July 2023

The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has designated two entities and one individual for their role in undermining peace, security, and stability in Sudan. Since the peaceful ousting of Omar al-Bashir in April 2019, various actors have taken steps to hinder Sudan’s efforts towards civilian democratic governance.

Key Findings

  • Ali Karti, a former Minister of Foreign Affairs under al-Bashir, has been designated for his role in obstructing Sudan’s progress towards a full democratic transition.
  • Two entities designated by OFAC are RSF-affiliated companies, GSK Advance Company Ltd and Aviatrade LLC. These companies have generated revenue from and contributed to the conflict in Sudan.

Designations

The designations were made under Executive Order 14098, which targets individuals who destabilize Sudan and undermine its democratic transition. Ali Karti was designated for his role in undermining the former civilian-led transitional government and the Framework Political Agreement process, contributing to the outbreak of fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on April 15, 2023.

GSK Advance Company Ltd has been used as a procurement channel for the RSF, arranging purchases of parts and supplies, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The UK designated GSK on July 12, 2023. Aviatrade LLC was also designated for its involvement in the conflict.

Quotes

  • “Today’s action holds accountable those who have undercut efforts to find a peaceful, democratic solution in Sudan. We will continue to target actors perpetuating this conflict for personal gain.” - Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson

Consequences

As a result of the designations, all property and interests in property of these individuals and entities must be blocked and reported to OFAC. Financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions with these sanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselves to sanctions or enforcement action.

Goal of Sanctions

The ultimate goal of sanctions is not punishment but positive change in behavior. By targeting those who undermine peace and stability, the US Treasury aims to encourage constructive actions towards a peaceful, democratic solution in Sudan.