WASHINGTON – On International Anti-Corruption Day, the U.S. Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions against 28 individuals and businesses involved in a global gold smuggling and money laundering network based in Zimbabwe. These actions, under Executive Order (E.O.) 13818, target perpetrators of serious human rights abuses and corruption worldwide.
The network, led by Kamlesh Pattni, has orchestrated fraudulent schemes through bribery, concealed ownership structures, and a network of businesses to disguise illicit activities. This operation has deprived Zimbabwe’s citizens of the benefits of their natural resources, instead enriching corrupt officials and criminal collaborators.
“Corruption knows no borders and undermines communities and public trust,” stated Bradley T. Smith, Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. “On International Anti-Corruption Day, we reaffirm our commitment to holding corrupt individuals accountable and protecting resources meant for public benefit.”
Since its inception in 2003, International Anti-Corruption Day has highlighted the importance of combating corruption globally. It marks the anniversary of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), which has been ratified by 189 parties. The day emphasizes how corruption erodes governance, undermines democratic institutions, and hampers economic progress.
Pattni’s network exemplifies the global nature of corruption, necessitating coordinated responses. This action aligns with the United States Strategy on Countering Corruption, released in December 2021. It underscores the importance of intergovernmental collaboration, with the FBI and the United Kingdom playing critical roles in the current sanctions. The UK also designated Pattni and others involved.
The FBI and Treasury collaborate to hold corrupt actors accountable, preventing them from exploiting U.S. financial systems. Such corruption not only depletes public funds but also diverts resources that could improve infrastructure, education, and economies.
Throughout 2024, the Treasury intensified efforts to counter corruption and illicit financial activities, sanctioning over 100 individuals and entities across more than a dozen countries under E.O. 13818. Since 2021, over 500 individuals and entities have faced similar actions, reflecting the Treasury’s commitment to accountability.
Beyond sanctions, the Treasury has bolstered anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) measures. Recent reforms target vulnerabilities in the residential real estate and investment advisor sectors, often exploited by corrupt actors. These actions aim to safeguard the U.S. financial system and promote fairness, transparency, and integrity.
By leveraging innovative tools and fostering international partnerships, the United States remains steadfast in its fight against global corruption and financial crime.