Newsletter (21 Oct – 27 Oct 2024)
Welcome to this week’s edition of the Global AML News Weekly Digest. Here are the top stories making headlines around the world:
Outcomes Of FATF Plenary (23-25 October 2024)
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) held its first plenary session under the presidency of Elisa de Anda Madrazo of Mexico from October 23-25, 2024. Delegates from over 200 jurisdictions and international observers joined to discuss critical global issues, including money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing. Key areas of focus were enhancing the efficiency of national AML/CFT frameworks, strengthening the collaboration among member countries, and addressing emerging financial crime risks from digital assets and complex cross-border structures. The outcomes highlight a growing global commitment to countering financial crimes and expanding AML/CFT standards globally.
FinCEN Alert To Combat Hizballah Financing
The U.S. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has issued an alert to financial institutions aimed at identifying and reporting activities linked to Lebanese Hizballah, a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. This alert builds on FinCEN’s May 2024 advisory on Iran-backed terrorist organizations and offers a comprehensive view of Hizballah’s criminal networks. Financial institutions are encouraged to enhance vigilance and report suspicious transactions connected to Hizballah’s financing mechanisms to disrupt its global financial operations.
FIU Imposes Rs 54 Lakh Fine On Union Bank Of India
India’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has imposed a fine of Rs 54 lakh on Union Bank of India for failing to report suspicious transactions and for inadequate due diligence at one of its Mumbai branches. The penalty, issued under Section 13 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), followed an investigation into the bank’s failure to meet its AML obligations. Union Bank of India’s lapses underscore the importance of consistent compliance to counter financial crime risks.
Chinese OTC Trader Accused Of Laundering Millions For North Korea’s Lazarus Group
In a significant development within the cryptocurrency sector, an analyst revealed that Yicong Wang, a Chinese over-the-counter (OTC) trader, allegedly laundered over $17 million in cryptocurrency for North Korea’s Lazarus Group. Wang is accused of converting stolen digital assets into cash for Lazarus, responsible for numerous high-profile crypto heists. This case highlights the ongoing intersection of digital finance and international cybersecurity threats.
Albania’s Former President Ilir Meta Arrested
Albanian police have detained former President Ilir Meta on charges of passive corruption, money laundering, and failure to declare wealth. His arrest occurred as he returned from Kosovo, leading to statements from his opposition Freedom Party that condemn the detention as politically motivated. Meta, who served as Albania’s president from 2017 to 2022, now faces serious allegations tied to his financial conduct.
US Charges Venezuelan Media Tycoon With Money Laundering
The U.S. Department of Justice has indicted Raul Gorrin Belisario, owner of the pro-government Globovision news network in Venezuela, on charges of laundering hundreds of millions of dollars linked to Venezuela’s state-owned PDVSA. According to the indictment, Gorrin participated in a $1.2 billion scheme that allegedly involved corrupt funds and extensive bribes to Venezuelan officials, spotlighting significant financial corruption within Venezuela’s energy sector.
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- #LazarusGroup
- #IlirMeta
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- #PDVSA
- #RaulGorrin
- #GlobalAML
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