Daily financial-crime intelligence · Updated 28 Sep 2026, 23:02 UTC
Sanctions
Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate revealed information about fourteen financial institutions and payment systems facilitating Russia's international transactions while circumventing sanctions.
Bribery & corruption
Luis Miguel Martínez Morales ('Miguelito'), an unelected official who accumulated unprecedented power during Alejandro Giammattei's presidency, faces new investigations. The Organized Crime Office conducted 13 simultaneous raids investigating long-standing corruption allegations.
Sanctions
On 25 September 2026, the AMF Sanctions Commission sought €1.5 million in fines against Auris Gestion and two of its executives. The asset management firm is accused of professional violations concerning the management of customized funds.
Canada's financial intelligence unit FINTRAC imposed an administrative monetary penalty of CA$82,500 on Caisse populaire Alliance limitée (Caisse Alliance) for non-compliance with anti-money laundering requirements.
FINTRAC imposed a $676,500 administrative monetary penalty on Caisse populaire acadienne ltée (operating as UNI Financial Cooperation), a federally regulated credit union in New Brunswick, for violations of the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act.
Sanctions
The article reports US sanctions against a cryptocurrency exchange allegedly operated by Iranian billionaire Babak Zanjani and used to process payments for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz (the 'Tehran tollbooth scheme') and to funnel funds to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Money laundering
The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) announced the imposition of strict enforcement measures against Bank Melli Iran's branches operating in the UAE due to violations related to non-compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regulations.
Money laundering
According to ICIJ's 'China Capital' investigation based on 4.8 million confidential ICBC records, the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China allegedly used its London operations to serve firms linked to sanctioned Russian and Belarusian owners while pursuing Chinese state objectives.
Money laundering
A Financial Times investigation revealed that A7, a cryptocurrency company founded by Moldovan oligarch Ilan Șor and a Russian defense bank, circumvented SWIFT sanctions by creating approximately 200 shell companies across multiple countries. These entities conducted $6.
Federal prosecutors in the U.S. are investigating cryptocurrency exchange Binance over potential sanctions violations related to Iran. The probe is being handled by the Manhattan U.S. attorney's office, with the Department of Justice's criminal division in Washington also involved.
Latvia refused to support a deal that would have removed EU sanctions against Russian businessmen Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman in exchange for extending the broader EU sanctions list affecting approximately 3,000 Russian-linked persons and organizations.
Fraud & scams
Tomás Niembro Concha, 64, a Spanish and Venezuelan national and former chief executive officer of Nodus International Bank, was sentenced on September 21, 2026, to 112 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Niembro led a scheme to fraudulently obtain at least $24.
Money laundering
Huawei Technologies faces a criminal trial in federal court in Brooklyn, New York, on charges including racketeering, money laundering, bank and wire fraud, sanctions violations, obstruction, and trade secret theft from five U.S. technology companies.
Money laundering
According to a Bellingcat investigation published with The Sunday Times, the UAE cancelled the residence permit of Christy Kinahan on August 31, 2026, following investigative reporting that exposed the visa status of multiple individuals the US Treasury has designated under sanctions.
Money laundering
According to The Bureau of Investigative Journalism, Ben Delo, who donated £36 million to Reform UK, co-founded BitMEX—a cryptocurrency exchange that prosecutors alleged operated with minimal customer verification, facilitating money laundering and sanctions evasion.
Fraud & scams
According to ICIJ, Huawei is on trial in Brooklyn federal court on 12 felony charges including racketeering, trade secret theft, wire fraud, and bank fraud.
Money laundering
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated BitBank, an Iranian digital asset exchange allegedly controlled by sanctioned financier Babak Zanjani, for facilitating alleged money laundering and sanctions evasion.
Bribery & corruption
The U.S. Embassy in La Paz issued a stern warning against government corruption linked to drug trafficking, stating that 'Estados Unidos no tolera la narco-política en el hemisferio, y nadie está exento' (no one is exempt from Washington's anti-narcotics policies).
Sanctions
The US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated BitBank, described as a digital asset exchange controlled by sanctioned Iranian financier Babak Zanjani.
Bribery & corruption
According to a sentencing memorandum filed in federal court in New York, Turkish government officials allegedly attempted to have Reza Zarrab, a key witness cooperating in a sweeping Iran sanctions-evasion investigation, killed inside a U.S. federal detention facility.
Fraud & scams
According to OCCRP, British authorities froze a luxury London property worth USD 72 million owned by Zhao Chen, a China-born Cypriot citizen, in connection to her husband Wu An Ming (also known as Hu Xiaowei), who has been sanctioned by both the U.S. and U.K. for alleged ties to the Prince Group.
Money laundering
Federal prosecutors filed a civil forfeiture complaint on September 15, 2026, seeking to seize over $61 million in cryptocurrency held in unhosted wallets on the TRON blockchain. The complaint alleges that two Chinese companies, Blessed Trust and Hexa Whale, laundered approximately $1.
Short-selling firm Grizzly Research alleged that Raiffeisen Bank International functioned as a key channel for Russian sanctions evasion, enabling over $1 billion in trade including military-related goods.
The EU Council decided on 15 September 2026 to prolong the restrictive measures targeting those responsible for undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine for another six months.
Sanctions
Norway's National Criminal Investigation Service (Kripos) and the PST security service announced they are investigating Telenor on suspicion that the telecoms operator aided and abetted crimes against humanity in Myanmar following the 2021 military coup.
Money laundering
Three individuals connected to the Pierre Mirabaud banking scandal received criminal penalties in connection with approximately 80 million francs in undisclosed commissions.
Fraud & scams
An investigation has revealed that Lebanon imported overpriced Russian fuel between 2023 and 2025 with allegedly falsified certificates of origin designed to conceal the sanctioned nature of the shipments.
Money laundering
Based on 4.8 million confidential ICBC files, ICIJ and 23 media partners report that the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China allegedly used its London operations to finance companies linked to sanctioned Russian and Belarusian business owners, autocrats publicly accused of corruption, and…
Sanctions
The UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2828 (2026), extending the 1591 Sudan sanctions regime—including targeted sanctions and an arms embargo—for one month to allow continued negotiations on potential expansion.
Fraud & scams
The World Bank Group announced a 29-month debarment of African Consulting Surveyors (ACS) and its Managing Director Willem Jan Timmerman for fraudulent and collusive practices in the Mozambique Land Administration Project (Terra Segura).
Bribery & corruption
The US State Department announced entry bans for seven former Ecuadorian officials accused of corruption linked to organisations designated as terrorist by Washington. The measure was announced during Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to Ecuador.
Huawei Technologies is heading to trial in federal court in Brooklyn over its business dealings in Iran. Eight years after U.S. prosecutors secretly charged the Chinese company with defrauding HSBC and other banks over its business with Iran, jury selection began on September 9, 2026.
Sanctions
HM Revenue and Customs has imposed a record £7,438,840 compound penalty on Illumina Cambridge Limited for breaches of Russian sanctions regulations through indirect supply of sanctioned goods.
Sanctions
The Trump administration announced sanctions against Golden Global Yatirim Bankasi Anonim Sirketi, an Istanbul-based investment bank allegedly established to enable Iran's transfer of oil revenues obtained from China to Turkey, where proceeds could be converted into cash and gold.
Money laundering
The United States Treasury blacklisted Golden Global Bank and two subsidiaries for allegedly facilitating money laundering schemes converting Iranian oil revenue into physical currency and precious metals.
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury targeted Golden Global and related subsidiaries for allegedly facilitating Iran's access to the international financial system and enabling movement of sanctioned oil revenues.
Luxembourg's Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF) imposed an administrative fine of €56,000 on Stonehage Fleming Luxembourg S.A. on 4 September 2026 for failures in sanctions compliance procedures.
Sanctions
The United States Treasury Department designated Golden Global Yatirim Bankasi Anonim Sirketi and two subsidiaries on allegations of facilitating financial transactions for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force and providing a critical financial lifeline for the Iranian regime.
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Istanbul-based Golden Global Investment Bank, alleging it conducted transactions on behalf of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force.
Sanctions
Investigation into Ramón Carretero Napolitano, a Panamanian businessman, who allegedly orchestrated an international commercial network exploiting Cuba's severe shortages to generate substantial profits.
Sanctions
The UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) and National Economic Crime Centre released an alert regarding the A7 sanctions evasion network, developed collaboratively with OFSI (Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation), FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office), and financial sector partners.
According to a Wall Street Journal investigation, Russia has established a sanctions-circumvention operation through Maldives airport. Western goods worth hundreds of millions of dollars flow through Malé airport, including electronics and dual-use aviation components.
Sanctions
The UK's Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) imposed a monetary penalty of £4,732,830.58 on Citibank N.A., London Branch (CBNA London) on 11 August 2026, according to an announcement published on 2 September 2026.
Sanctions
The United Kingdom strengthened enforcement actions against shadow financial networks connected to Russia's economy.
Sanctions
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced an escalation of economic sanctions against Iran during the G20 Ministerial meeting, revealing plans for a sustained campaign of financial pressure targeting Iranian banking institutions and entities connected to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Sanctions
British authorities announced they are intensifying enforcement against those who evade Russia-related sanctions by doubling maximum penalties. The revised penalties now permit fines reaching 100% of illicitly obtained proceeds, up from the previous 50% cap.
Sanctions
The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates initiated an investigation into the local branches of Egypt's second-largest bank following US Treasury sanctions.
Sanctions
The UK government announced action to disrupt the A7 network, a Kremlin-linked financial structure used to bypass international sanctions and support Russia's war economy.
Money laundering
An ICIJ investigation based on Tether financial records from 2019-2020 found that the stablecoin company sold USDT tokens to customers who were later sanctioned or charged with financial crimes. Among them: Nikita Krasnov, who purchased approximately $1.
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury announced sanctions severing the UAE operations of Egypt's second-largest bank, Banque Misr, from American financial systems. Between January 2024 and June 2026, Banque Misr UAE processed approximately $1.
Money laundering
Iraq's Federal Commission of Integrity announced that Ali Maarij al-Bahadli, Deputy Oil Minister for Distribution Affairs, was sentenced to seven years in prison by an anti-corruption court for illicit enrichment and money laundering.
According to reporting, Russia actively utilizes Tajikistan to circumvent Western sanctions through several mechanisms: Russian financial institutions use Tajikistan's banking system for cross-border operations, with three Tajik banks facing secondary sanctions for facilitating these transfers.
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury Department announced that it is taking action against the UAE branch of Banque Misr (Bank of Egypt), accusing the institution of facilitating transactions for Iran's defense ministry and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
A German court sentenced two brothers for sanctions violations related to 65 exports to Russia via Turkey and Kyrgyzstan totalling €833,000 in engineering equipment and machinery used in weapons manufacturing.
Money laundering
ENEX Premium Trading Limited, registered in St Kitts and Nevis and owned by Azerbaijani national Nadir Valiyev, agreed to forfeit more than $5.2 million (£3.84 million) following a civil recovery investigation into suspected money laundering and sanctions evasion.
According to Meduza citing Financial Times reporting, four senior managers at Gazprombank's Luxembourg branch—Dmitry Derkach, Sergey Nekrasov, Sergey Belousov, and Pavel Bolshakov—allegedly orchestrated a scheme to profit from sanctions-induced market disruption.
Sanctions
According to Bellingcat's open-source analysis, the cargo vessel Patria (IMO: 9159921), sanctioned by the US, Ukraine, and Canada, has been making repeated trips between ports in Cameroon and Gabon since March 2026, with anchorages off Lagos, Nigeria.
Sanctions
The US Treasury Department designated approximately 60 individuals, entities, and vessels targeting networks connected to Mohammad-Hossein Shamkhani.
Sanctions
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission has revoked the licence of Ernest Chan Tsz Kin, a former responsible officer of Keptain Securities and Asset Management Limited, and banned him from re-entering the industry for 10 years, effective 24 August 2026 to 23 August 2036.
Sanctions
The US Treasury Department announced sanctions against ten individuals for their alleged ties to Hezbollah and Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps. Nine Turkish citizens and one Iranian national, identified as Masoud Mosafer, were added to the sanctions list.
Sanctions
Asdrúbal José Brito Hernández was appointed to lead Venezuela's National Anti-Extortion and Kidnapping Command (CONAS). This appointment is significant because Brito Hernández has an extensive record of international sanctions and human rights concerns. Both Canada (January 2025) and the U.S.
Money laundering
Panama's Banking Superintendent approved new enforcement regulations establishing clearer criteria for sanctioning financial institutions that violate anti-money laundering rules.
Fraud & scams
Authorities are investigating alleged embezzlement using thirteen fraudulent judicial writs (exhortos) attributed to a Choluteca court to execute embargoes against municipal funds. The investigation identified approximately 32,545,791.88 lempiras (approximately $1.
Money laundering
Binance announced on August 14, 2026 that it will cease processing transactions involving 16 cryptocurrency platforms and service providers in a phased rollout from August 7 to August 23, 2026.
Sanctions
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) obtained a 6-year disqualification order from the Hong Kong Court against Tian Songlin, a former executive director of Hong Kong-listed National United Resources, for breach of fiduciary duties in connection with $75 million in fictitious transactions, according to SFC proceedings.
Sanctions
Analysis of the Eurasian Economic Union's 47th intergovernmental council meeting held August 7, 2026, concluded with new agreements on easier cross-border e-commerce and exchange brokerage services.
Money laundering
According to multiple reports, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) suspended crypto ATM operator Cryptolink Pty Ltd for three months effective August 9, 2026, forcing 96 machines offline.
Sanctions
Austrian authorities announced the uncovering of a sanctions evasion operation involving a Vienna-based company that illegally supplied specialized industrial equipment worth over €3.3 million to Russia's weapons manufacturers.
Money laundering
A7, a Russian payment network backed by Russia's state-owned PSB bank and publicly endorsed by President Vladimir Putin, is alleged to have become a major conduit for moving money out of Russia despite Western sanctions.
Fraud & scams
Ahmed Abdullah al-Jubouri, former governor of Iraq's Saladin province and widely known as 'Abu Mazen,' was arrested in Baghdad on Saturday, August 8, 2026 on corruption charges.
Sanctions
According to reporting citing Wall Street Journal investigations, Russia's A7 is described as a state-backed payment system that moves money in and out of Russia while defying U.S. and European efforts to isolate Moscow from the global banking system.
Money laundering
The U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated cryptocurrency exchanges Shelbit and Aban Tether, along with network operator Siavash Kayvanpour and associated entities in Georgia, Poland, and the UAE, for allegedly processing millions in cryptocurrency transactions to…
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury Department lifted sanctions on the Iraqi airline Fly Baghdad on August 5, 2026, after determining the airline had made fundamental operational changes such that there is no longer a basis to maintain its designation.
Money laundering
The Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal adjourned proceedings involving 13 individuals and six companies accused of illegally trading military equipment destined for Sudan, money laundering, brokerage, and document forgery until August 12, 2026, to allow defense counsel to complete pleadings.
The United States imposed sanctions on five Cuban entities and eight individuals allegedly facilitating Cuba's acquisition of weapons and maintaining foreign military relationships with China and Russia.
Sanctions
An ICIJ analysis of recently released UN procurement data reveals that at least 11 companies with reported ties to the former Assad regime continued to receive UN contracts after Assad's ouster in December 2024. According to ICIJ, the UN paid roughly $10 million in 2025 to these companies.
Sanctions
The UAE ordered all Iranian vessels out of its ports effective 1 August 2026, as part of broader enforcement efforts against sanctions evasion. The action follows intensifying US sanctions against Iran's maritime infrastructure and digital financial networks.
Sanctions
Sanctions from the European Union's 21st sanctions package against Russia came into effect on August 25, 2026, targeting the A7 cross-border payments network and related cryptocurrency infrastructure.
Money laundering
According to an investigation by Bellingcat and The Sunday Times, Christopher Kinahan Jr, a sanctioned leader of what the US Treasury describes as a $1.
Money laundering
According to a Reuters investigation, Iran operates a massive money laundering and sanctions-evasion operation through multiple channels.
Sanctions
A Reuters investigation reveals an unlicensed Dubai-based cryptocurrency exchange called Shelbit, operated by Iranian national Siavash Kivanpour, allegedly transferred approximately $676 million to Binance as part of a $4 billion sanctions-evasion scheme.
Ukrainian forces reportedly attacked the container ship Yanina in the Black Sea. According to Ukrainian officials, the vessel was allegedly used to transport oil in violation of international sanctions restrictions and to provide military logistics support.
Money laundering
A Reuters investigation reveals that Shelbit, an unlicensed Dubai-based cryptocurrency exchange, processed at least $4 billion for an Iranian gambling network comprising over 2,000 Farsi-language gambling websites.
Bribery & corruption
Guatemala's Prosecutor's Office sought to prosecute two former chief prosecutors, Rafael Curruchiche (who directed FECI, the Special Prosecutor's Office Against Impunity) and Saúl Sánchez (who led the Office Against Crimes Against Cultural Heritage), for alleged serious abuses of authority during their tenures.
Sanctions
Reuters investigation exposes Shelbit, an unlicensed Dubai-based cryptocurrency exchange operated by Iranian expatriate Siavash Kayvanpour, as allegedly facilitating at least $4 billion in sanctions evasion since May 2024.
Sanctions
An investigation by Reuters and cryptocurrency firms identified an illicit Iranian gambling network operating through a Dubai-based, unlicensed cryptocurrency exchange named Shelbit that processes billions of dollars.
Money laundering
According to an ICIJ Coin Laundry investigation, cryptocurrency exchange HTX, sanctioned by the European Union and UK for alleged involvement in Russia's crypto ecosystem used to evade Western sanctions, reportedly generated over 750 new Tron blockchain wallet addresses in two months following sanctions, compared to 32 prior accounts.
The EU imposed sanctions under the Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime on seven individuals and three entities for serious human rights violations linked to scam center operations in Southeast Asia.
Sanctions
On 23 July 2026, the European Union adopted a 21st sanctions package adding 218 new sanctions listings (48 individuals and 170 entities). The package represents a strategic shift from targeting individual companies to tackling wider networks enabling sanctions evasion.
Sanctions
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control announced sanctions against 10 companies and 7 oil tankers linked to Iran's oil export networks. According to the report, these entities allegedly facilitated oil sales in circumvention of international sanctions restrictions.
Bribery & corruption
Carlos Genatios, former Minister of Science and Technology during Hugo Chávez's administration, contends that despite substantial petroleum revenues, the chavista regime failed to maintain Venezuela's seismic monitoring equipment.
Sanctions
The United States sanctioned an Istanbul-based financial technology company Zedpay Financial Systems and Services Inc.
Sanctions
The U.S. Department of State announced a reward of up to $15 million for intelligence regarding the financial activities and network linked to Beh Joule Pars Commercial Engineering Company, an Iranian entity accused of cooperating with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and assisting in…
Sanctions
The Insider reported and the EU confirmed sanctions on participants in the A7 cryptocurrency network created in late 2024 by Promsvyazbank and Moldovan oligarch Ilan Shor.
Sanctions
The Insider reports that the EU Council included non-bank credit organization Platezhniy Tsentr — operator and settlement center of the Zolotaya Korona payment system — in its sanctions list as part of the 21st sanctions package.
On 24 July 2026, the EU Council imposed asset freezes and travel bans on six individuals over alleged serious human rights violations in Iran.
Money laundering
Infobea reports on how the Jalisco Nueva Generación Cartel built a network of formal businesses including gas stations (Petrocoda S.A.)
Fraud & scams
Russia's Interior Ministry is investigating alleged embezzlement of approximately 12 billion roubles allocated for purchasing foreign aircraft parts to circumvent sanctions for Russian airlines.
The Council of the European Union adopted its 21st package of sanctions against Russia on 23 July 2026, introducing 218 new listings—the highest number of designations in four years since the Ukraine invasion.
Sanctions
The European Union adopted its 21st sanctions package against Russia on 23 July 2026, which expands restrictive measures to target cryptocurrency platforms and payment services.
Sanctions
The UN Security Council Committee concerning Libya announced it had added the vessel 'Avax' (Cameroon-flagged) to its sanctions list on 22 July 2026 for alleged involvement in attempts to illicitly export petroleum, including crude oil and refined products, from Libya.
According to La Jornada, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Treasury Department, in coordination with Mexico's Financial Intelligence Unit, sanctioned 55 individuals and entities linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in what Treasury describes as its largest financial action against that group.
The European Union published its 21st sanctions package against Russia, which includes 48 individuals and 170 organisations, according to reports. Among those listed are the Moscow Exchange, approximately 94 banks including Dom.
EU ambassadors agreed on the 21st sanctions package against Russia, prohibiting transactions with 32 additional Russian banks and targeting cryptocurrency companies and oil trading platforms.
Money laundering
A Canadian intelligence memo from FINTRAC's Strategic Intelligence unit assessed that cryptocurrency-to-cash conversion services across Canada are being 'heavily exploited for illicit purposes' and are 'knowingly facilitating money laundering, sanctions evasion' and organized crime activities, according to reporting by The Toronto Star and ICIJ.
The Council imposed restrictive measures on July 17, 2026, on one individual and five entities involved in Russia's military-industrial complex and drone manufacturing, in response to deadly strikes on Kyiv during the nights of July 1 and 5, 2026.
Fraud & scams
The European Public Prosecutor's Office in Katowice carried out investigative measures in a probe into alleged fraudulent importation of Russian birch plywood disguised as Kazakhstani goods between October 2023 and April 2025.
Fraud & scams
The Senate Bureau pronounced on July 16 a censure with temporary exclusion against Christine Herzog, senator for Moselle, for characterized moral harassment of an employee and serious breach of principles of dignity and probity.
Sanctions
On July 14, 2026, the UN Security Council Committee concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo approved additions to its sanctions list targeting individuals and groups involved in destabilizing activities.
Sanctions
The U.K. announced sanctions targeting eleven individuals and entities suspected of being linked to financing, procurement and commercial networks supporting the RSF or SAF in Sudan's civil war.
According to the Financial Times, Greece opposed the European Union's 21st sanctions package, which includes a ban on transporting Russian liquefied natural gas to third countries, reportedly to protect shipping company Dynagas owned by Greek businessman Georgy Prokopiou.
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury froze approximately $130 million in cryptocurrency assets allegedly connected to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, an organization the U.S. designates as a terrorist group. According to the report, this action reflects escalating sanctions pressure amid heightened U.S.
Sanctions
The US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control expanded its sanctions on July 15, 2026, targeting individuals and entities linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard. Among those sanctioned was Maria Selina, a Russian citizen accused of direct ties to the IRGC.
Money laundering
Brazilian authorities detained ten individuals in Operation Hawala against a network accused of laundering proceeds for three of the country's major criminal organizations (Terceiro Comando Puro, Comando Vermelho and Primeiro Comando da Capital).
OFAC designated Dmytro Rashevskyi, administrator of FirstVPN Service (1VPNS), a VPN provider selling anonymizing infrastructure to ransomware groups, under multiple designations including for enabling ransomware attacks against Americans and facilitating illicit financial flows.
Bribery & corruption
The French Anti-Corruption Agency's Sanctions Commission issued its first-ever direct financial penalties on 9 July 2026, against SAS V. Investissements and its president for failing to implement mandatory anti-corruption compliance measures under the Sapin II law.
Sanctions
The UK Financial Conduct Authority issued a Decision Notice on 16 April 2026 proposing a £99,600 penalty against Carlos Ricardo Fuenmayor, CEO of BancTrust Investment Bank Limited, for breaching Senior Manager Conduct Rules, according to the FCA.
Sanctions
Mahdi Mohammad Sadeghi, a dual U.S.-Iranian national of Natick, Massachusetts, was convicted after a 14-day jury trial of conspiracy and violations related to illegally exporting electronic components to Iran.
Reza Zarrab, a businessman who pleaded guilty in 2017 to conspiracy, bank fraud, and money laundering, was sentenced to time served after cooperating with U.S. prosecutors. Zarrab admitted to conspiring with a Turkish bank to facilitate Iran's evasion of U.S. sanctions by trading its oil for gold.
Sanctions
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office added 10 employees of Rybar LLC to its sanctions list on July 13, 2026, with asset freezes and entry bans for their involvement in destabilizing Ukraine.
Fraud & scams
The General Directorate for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Anti-Fraud (DGCCRF) announced on 14 July 2026 a €300,000 fine against Banque Populaire Val de France for misleading commercial practice.
Sanctions
Arash Einolghozati, a 37-year-old lawful permanent resident from Iran, pleaded guilty to violating the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations.
On 13 July 2026, the EU designated 28 Russian individuals and 10 entities through Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1708 under four Russia-related regimes: nine individuals and four entities responsible for cyberattacks and malicious activities against EU member states; and 15 individuals…
Sanctions
The EU sanctioned VK (parent company owning VKontakte and Odnoklassniki), OOO "Kommunikatsionnaya Platforma" (MAX messenger developer), and 11 individuals.
Sanctions
Mehdi Mohammad Sadeghi, 43, a US citizen with Iranian nationality, was convicted on three of five charges for violating US export control laws by conspiring to illegally export electronic components to Iran in breach of American sanctions.
Sanctions
The European Union imposed sanctions against nine individuals and four organizations allegedly involved in Russian cyberattacks, attributing responsibility to Russia's FSB 16th Center.
On 13 July 2026, the EU and UK announced coordinated sanctions against Russia's FSB intelligence agency following a December cyberattack on Poland's energy infrastructure. The EU imposed sanctions on 9 individuals and 4 entities, while the UK sanctioned 24 individuals and entities.
Sanctions
The UK sanctioned 24 individuals and entities, including GRU senior leadership (Vyacheslav Stafeyev, Ivan Kasyanenko, Ivan Senin), operators of the Lumma Stealer malware (which allegedly affected at least 2,100 UK victims), personnel from Rybar LLC accused of spreading false narratives, and members of GRU Unit 29155.
Money laundering
Transparency International US released a report titled 'Crypto's Dirty Money Problem: What Congress Must Fix' warning that proposed US cryptocurrency legislation, including the CLARITY Act, contains regulatory gaps that could allegedly enable scammers, drug cartels, terrorist financing, sanctions evasion, and corruption.
According to a New York Times investigation based on interviews with five current and former Western intelligence officials, Russia has allegedly established a sanctions evasion network acquiring Japanese military technologies through third countries.
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury Department announced new sanctions against Cuba's Tourism Ministry, state enterprises, and organizations linked to security.
The EU Council imposed restrictive measures on nine Russian individuals and four entities forming part of Russia's cyber ecosystem, responsible for carrying out, enabling and facilitating cyber-attacks against the EU, its member states and international partners.
The European Union Council strengthened the EU's restrictive measures concerning Sudan on July 13, 2026, by introducing a ban on the purchase, import or transfer of gold originating in Sudan, and banning the sale, supply, transfer or export of mercury and cyanide to Sudan.
Fraud & scams
Law No. 2026-534 of June 25, 2026 relating to combating social and tax fraud (articles 34 and 35) strengthens the AMF's sanctioning powers.
Bribery & corruption
The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Dubai-based Iranian banker Ali Ansari, along with 13 other individuals and entities, targeting Iran's financial networks supporting the regime's leadership.
On July 10, 2026, the US Treasury sanctioned Ali Ansari, a Dubai-based Iranian businessman accused of managing financial networks for Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.
Money laundering
The Dutch central bank (DNB) fined ABN Amro €8.5 million in July 2026 for serious failings in monitoring high-risk customers. The bank failed to investigate potential money laundering sufficiently, some linked to Russia, between September 2023 and September 2024.
Sanctions
The UN Security Council ISIL and Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee amended the designation of Hamidah Nabaggala, a Ugandan national born February 23, 1989, currently residing in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Money laundering
U.S. federal prosecutors filed a memorandum requesting sentencing leniency for Reza Zarrab, an Iranian-Turkish gold trader convicted of conspiracy, bank fraud, and money laundering related to circumventing U.S. sanctions against Iran.
Fraud & scams
The UK National Crime Agency is pursuing civil forfeiture proceedings seeking $357,000 (approximately £275,000) from a 30-year-old man sanctioned in the UK for alleged ties to the Russian government. The individual, described as Russian-Cypriot, reportedly has connections to Gazprom.
On July 6, 2026, the UK sanctioned seven individuals and two leading scientific research institutes involved in Russia's chemical weapons programme, imposing asset freezes and travel bans.
Money laundering
Experts allege that the Jalisco Nueva Generación Cartel and Sinaloa Cartel may have utilized phantom remittances entering Banco del Bienestar to finance the ruling party and 2024 elections in Mexico.
Estonian courts released judgments on 6 July 2026 detailing 5 convictions across 3 cases for sanctions breaches related to Russia.
Sanctions
The Central Bank of the UAE imposed a financial sanction of Dh1,820,000 on a branch of a foreign bank operating in the country for failing to issue a liability letter within the mandated seven-day period, in violation of the central bank's Market Conduct and Consumer Protection Regulations and Standards, according to the regulator.
Sanctions
The UK sanctioned seven individuals and two research institutes on 6 July 2026 for their alleged involvement in researching, developing, and producing Novichok nerve agents and Epibatidine toxin used in poisonings.
Sanctions
According to Chainalysis, cryptocurrency addresses linked to sanctioned entities received over $100 billion last year, representing an eightfold increase from the previous year.
Money laundering
Brazil's federal police launched Operation Exchange on July 3, 2026, deploying more than fifty officers across São Paulo state to target suspects sanctioned by the United States over alleged ties to the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) drug gang.
The EU Council imposed asset freezes, travel bans, and funding prohibitions on six Russian individuals involved in the development of epibatidine, the toxin found in samples from Alexei Navalny's body after his death in a Russian penal colony in February 2024.
Sanctions
A7A5, a Russia-backed ruble-pegged stablecoin designed to facilitate cross-border payments outside Western financial channels, claims it averages approximately $205 million in daily trading volume and processed $34.
Money laundering
Brazil's federal police launched Operation Exchange targeting suspects sanctioned by the United States over alleged ties to the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) drug gang. A São Paulo court authorized the seizure of assets, cash and cryptocurrency worth up to approximately $2 billion.
Money laundering
Brazil's Federal Police conducted an operation to dismantle a criminal organization dedicated to money laundering from international drug trafficking.
Bribery & corruption
Panama's National Police faces internal scrutiny after reassigning six officers to administrative functions while investigations for alleged corruption proceed.
Money laundering
The U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated two Brazilian citizens—Victor Henrique de Oliveira Shimada and Stella Stefanie Nunes Henrique de Oliveira—and multiple companies for alleged involvement in money laundering connected to the PCC criminal organization.
The International Institute for Strategic Studies reports that Russia conducted surveillance operations on European nuclear facilities using drones launched from vessels belonging to the 'shadow fleet'—ships identified as Seasons 1 and Hav Dolphin operating outside normal international shipping channels.
Money laundering
Iraq's 'Dawn Operation' anti-corruption investigation uncovered evidence of money laundering, with authorities seizing approximately 200 billion Iraqi dinars and 100 kilograms of gold from government officials, including $11 million and 4 billion dinars discovered in hidden compartments.
Money laundering
Turkish state-owned Halkbank reached a Deferred Prosecution Agreement with the US Department of Justice on March 9, 2026, according to Yetkin Report.
Money laundering
Financial authorities in Mexico and the United States jointly targeted a network allegedly involved in fuel smuggling connected to the Jalisco Nueva Generación cartel. The U.S.
Fraud & scams
Oscar Guillermo Juraidini Silva, Mexican accountant, was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department's OFAC on June 30, 2026, accused of designing and operating a corporate network that allowed the CJNG cartel to evade taxes on fuel imports.
Sanctions
The US and Gulf partner nations, including the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, announced coordinated sanctions through the Terrorist Financing Targeting Centre on five companies and 16 individuals linked to Hezbollah's Al Qard Al Hassan and Bayt Al Mal financial networks, according to the announcement.
Sanctions
Follow the Money investigation revealed that more than a third of Russia's shadow fleet consists of tankers previously owned by shipowners from Western countries. 230 aging tankers were sold at exceptionally high prices, allowing former owners to pocket over $6 billion.
Sanctions
HMRC announced that Petrofac Facilities Management Limited paid a £569,157 compound settlement for breaching Russia sanctions in 2022 and 2023 while winding down Russian operations.
Sanctions
OFSI imposed a £1 million penalty on Sabre Global Technologies in June 2026 for continuing to provide services to JSC Ural Airlines after the airline became subject to UK sanctions.
Sanctions
Petrofac Management Solutions became the first entity to be named in a compound settlement announcement for Russia sanctions breaches under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.
Sanctions
The European Central Bank imposed an administrative penalty of €3,255,000 on Banque Internationale à Luxembourg (BIL) for intentionally failing to apply its approved internal models for the calculation of expected loss for retail and corporate exposures in default.
Sanctions
New Zealand and Australian authorities conducted coordinated raids in Auckland, Christchurch, and Melbourne in late June 2026, with search warrants first executed on June 22 and additional warrants carried out in Christchurch the following week, coordinated with simultaneous raids in Melbourne by Australian Border Force and Australian Federal Police.
Sanctions
Bellingcat and The Sunday Times revealed that Ian Thomas Dixon, a sanctioned lieutenant of the Kinahan organized crime group, has been living openly in Dubai and participating in padel tournaments under an alias. Dixon was sanctioned by the U.S.
Sanctions
France's Navy intercepted oil tanker Deliver near Sicily on June 23, 2026, marking the fifth Russian shadow fleet vessel seized by France in 2026. The Cameroon-flagged ship allegedly carried Russian crude destined for Singapore.
Sanctions
The AMF Sanctions Commission imposed a fine of €800,000 on investment services provider Bourse Direct and €50,000 on its president Catherine Nini. The Commission found that 96,000 transactions had not been reported to the AMF between January 1, 2021 and November 30, 2023, representing €2.
The EU Council renewed restrictive measures against the Russian Federation for a further 12 months, until 31 July 2027, in view of Russia's continuing actions destabilising Ukraine.
Bribery & corruption
Truck driver Nicolás Flores Orquezo from Puerto Madryn was sentenced to one year suspended prison for attempting to bribe a Chubut police officer during a vehicle inspection on August 28, 2025.
Money laundering
UAE Central Bank imposed AED 20 million fine on foreign bank branch for repeated and serious failures in anti-money laundering, counter-terrorism financing, and sanctions compliance.
Money laundering
The Central Bank of the UAE announced it imposed a financial penalty of Dh20 million on an unnamed foreign bank for significant, repeated failures in its Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations and Sanctions framework, according to the regulator.
Money laundering
FCA issued public censure to CACEIS Bank (UK Branch) on June 19, 2026 (published June 25) for serious failings in anti-money laundering and client due diligence controls between October 2020 and April 2023.
Sanctions
The UK's Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) imposed a monetary penalty of £4,732,830.58 on Citibank, N.A., London Branch following serious breaches of UK financial sanctions rules linked to Russia. In total, 970 payments worth approximately £19.
Money laundering
Argentina's Federal Court of Campana sent Jorge Alberto D'Onofrio (former Buenos Aires Province Transport Minister) and Facundo Asensio (former VTV Inspection director) to trial for aggravated money laundering.
The U.S. Treasury designated seven actors allegedly involved in illicit weapons procurement for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, including Iranian national Behrouz Namazi and his company Nika Jet, Nigerian firm Vanguard Tactical Supply Limited, Italian national Dounia Ettaib, and Russian…
Sanctions
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions against multiple currency exchange houses, shell companies, and front companies operating across several countries that facilitated Iran's shadow banking system.
Sanctions
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated two cryptocurrency exchanges—Shelbit (operated by Siavash Kayvanpour) and Aban Tether—alleging they facilitate sanctions evasion and illicit financial activity supporting Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard…
Money laundering
Adita Hurtado Olascoaga, known as 'La Venadita,' serves as Nueva Familia Michoacana's primary financial operator. According to U.S. investigations and OFAC, she directs a money laundering network based on purchasing used clothing in the United States for subsequent resale in Mexico.
EU leaders agreed June 19, 2026 to extend sanctions on Russia for a full year—the first time they have done so, breaking from previous six-month renewal cycles. Hungary and Slovakia did not object this time, shift linked to Viktor Orbán's departure as Hungarian Prime Minister.
Fraud & scams
Military court convicted Sergey Efimov, former FSB research institute head, of inflating component costs for the Obereg drone-suppression system by 12 million rubles. Defense argued cost increases were necessary due to supplier reluctance stemming from fear of sanctions.
Sanctions
US Treasury sanctioned Jiangsu Bangdeya New Material Technology Co., LTD, a Chinese company, for offering illicit substances for sale, including fentanyl and protonitazene.
Sanctions
Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev announced Bulgaria will block a new EU sanctions package targeting Russia, objecting to provisions threatening Lukoil (Bulgaria's sole refinery in Burgas and key fuel supplier) and restrictions on Patriarch Tikhon Shevkunov, considered Putin's spiritual advisor.
US District Judge Richard Berman ruled June 17, 2026 that Turkey's Halkbank had met conditions agreed with government for dismissing case under deferred prosecution deal signed in March.
Fraud & scams
Federal judge in Manhattan Richard Berman dismissed criminal case against Halkbank filed in 2019, following settlement agreement reached with Trump administration in March 2026. U.S.
Money laundering
Guatemala's Executive sanctioned Decree 15-2026, the Comprehensive Law for the Prevention and Repression of Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing, on June 17, 2026, with implementation in three months.
Money laundering
Reda Mazen Rida Sabassi, 38, of San Diego, charged with terrorism, sanctions-evasion, wire fraud, money laundering, and false statements in connection with allegedly raising approximately $600,000 through purported charitable campaigns and diverting funds to Hamas.
Sanctions
UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) fined Sabre Global Technologies £1,000,920.59 for continuing to provide Russian carrier Ural Airlines access to its Global Distribution System for seven months after UK sanctions were imposed.
Sanctions
OFSI imposed £1 million penalty on UK travel technology company Sabre Global Technologies for continuing to provide Russian carrier Ural Airlines access to its global distribution system for seven months after UK sanctions imposed in May 2022.
Money laundering
Article identifies mechanisms through which Iran's IRGC exploits Dubai's financial infrastructure to circumvent sanctions: Free Trade Zones (IRGC heavily utilizes general trading companies, shell corporations, and front entities nested within 40+ distinct zones exploiting regulatory fragmentation);…
Sanctions
UK sanctions designated Yandex Bank and Wildberries Bank, plus entities connected to the A7 cryptocurrency payment system created by Promsvyazbank and fugitive Moldovan oligarch Ilan Shor for facilitating sanctions evasion.
Sanctions
Wall Street Journal/U.S. Coast Guard investigation revealed shadow fleet tankers (transporting Russian and Iranian oil) use remote desktop applications (AnyDesk, TeamViewer) allowing operators to remotely intervene in ship systems and delete data.
Britain introduced the first-ever global sanctions targeting Russian 'shadow fleet' vessels transporting liquefied natural gas, aiming to disrupt illicit energy commerce.
Sanctions
The US military has secretly coordinated the transfer of an estimated 90 million barrels of Gulf oil since May 2026, adopting Iran's own sanctions-evasion tactics to covertly move the oil, according to a Reuters investigation.
Sanctions
UK designated 11 individuals and 32 entities, and specified 27 ships under Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.
Sanctions
EU Council sanctioned 9 individuals and 45 organizations across Russia, China, Hong Kong, UAE, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Liberia for sanctions evasion.
The Crown Prosecution Service announced on 15 June 2026 that Ajay Pant, 38, has been charged with contravening Regulation 46Z9B under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, namely directly or indirectly supplying or delivering by ship prohibited Russian oil or oil products to a third…
EU announced new sanctions targeting 34 individuals and 47 organizations in Russia, including Metropolitan Tikhon (alleged spiritual advisor to Putin) accused of spreading propaganda, Prosecutor General Alexander Gutsan, and medical officials connected to Alexei Navalny's 2020 poisoning.
The European Council adopted a 'mini-package' of restrictive measures introducing asset freeze listings on 34 individuals and 47 entities.
The EU Council approved a package designating 34 individuals and 47 entities.
Sanctions
UK detained sanctioned Russian oil tanker SMYRTOS in English Channel on June 14, 2026, marking Britain's first operation against sanctioned Russian vessel in its own waters.
Sanctions
Royal Marine Commandos and National Crime Agency officers boarded sanctioned vessel SMYRTOS (Cameroon flag) in English Channel on June 14, 2026 in first UK-led operation of its kind. Six-hour operation supported by Chinook, Merlin, Wildcat helicopters, RAF P-8, HMS Sutherland, HMS Ledbury.
UK Royal Marines boarded and detained the Russian shadow fleet tanker 'Smyrtos' (operating under Cameroon flag) in the English Channel following a six-hour operation. The vessel was used to transport Russian oil circumventing Western sanctions.
Sanctions
Royal Marine Commandos and National Crime Agency officers boarded sanctioned oil tanker SMYRTOS in English Channel on June 14, 2026, in 6-hour operation marking UK's first independent interdiction of this type.
Sanctions
The European Union prepared a new sanctions package targeting 52 individuals and 180 organizations including Moscow Exchange (the country's largest exchange platform and central element of Russian financial infrastructure), Patriarch Kirill, presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, businessman Mikhail…
Sanctions
The EU's 21st sanctions package against Russia extends measures to cryptocurrency platforms operating in Georgia and other third countries.
Sanctions
European Central Bank imposed two administrative sanctions totaling €12,180,000 on J.P. Morgan SE for incorrectly calculated risk-weighted assets. First sanction (€10.15M) concerned credit risk-weighted assets misclassification over 15 reporting periods (Dec 2019-June 2023). Second sanction (€2.
On June 11, 2026, a Brussels court sentenced three men for operating a criminal organisation to circumvent EU sanctions by exporting restricted goods to Russia through intermediary countries.
Sanctions
FCA fined Carlos Ricardo Fuenmayor, Chief Executive of BancTrust, £99,600 for failing to disclose three separate matters to FCA including December 2017 investigation and June 2019 sanction by US Financial Industry Regulatory Authority until December 2021.
Sanctions
European Commission proposed 21st sanctions package targeting Russia's shadow fleet (30 vessels blacklisted, bringing total above 660) and support vessels providing bunkering services.
European Commission proposed 21st sanctions package against Russia targeting 90 Russian banks (largest package of financial sanctions against banks), bringing total sanctioned banks above 100, representing more than 50% of all Russian credit organizations conducting international transactions.
Dutch Customs launched a major investigation involving raids on premises in Rotterdam and Amsterdam, searches on board a container vessel and the arrest of the captain.
Money laundering
Russia added Alexander Browder, a 17-year-old British student and son of Kremlin critic Sir Bill Browder, to its sanctions list on June 3, 2026, after he published a Henry Jackson Society report exposing the A7A5 cryptocurrency network.
The EU Council made its first individual designations under the framework extended on 22 May 2026 to target those threatening freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, listing two individuals and one entity.
Sanctions
OFAC and the SEC are investigating Freedom Holding, a Nasdaq-listed bank headquartered in Almaty, Kazakhstan, founded by Russian-born billionaire Timur Turlov. The joint investigation focuses on alleged sanctions breaches.
OFAC designated Amir Hossein Rad and Seyed Ali Khoee under counterterrorism and Iran sanctions authorities. Rad was designated for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy, and Khoee for being a leader of NOBITEX, a cryptocurrency exchange.
Australia imposed counter-terrorism financing sanctions on three individuals linked to the terrorist organisations Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
Bribery & corruption
The Public Ministry and the Anticorruption Directorate of the National Police (Dircocor) detained nine officers at the Vitarte Police Station in Lima on charges of passive bribery.
Russian citizen Tatyana Kurashkevich detained at Tbilisi airport at FBI request for circumventing international sanctions and organizing supply of aircraft spare parts (Airbus components) to Russia after Ukraine invasion.
A 44-year-old Iranian citizen pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Seattle to federal felonies related to his scheme to violate trade sanctions by smuggling military-related technology to Iran via China.
Money laundering
Russia's Foreign Ministry sanctioned 17-year-old Alexander Browder (son of Bill Browder) for March 2026 Henry Jackson Society report exposing A7A5 ruble-pegged stablecoin as crypto laundering network.
Fraud & scams
A Chinese national pled guilty on June 5, 2026, in D.C. federal court to conspiracy to defraud the U.S. in a sanctions evasion scheme involving North Korean tobacco smuggling, ending a case that had seen two mistrials. The case is part of broader U.S.
Sanctions
According to the U.S. Treasury, Iran's largest cryptocurrency exchange Nobitex allegedly 'processed more than 50 percent of all Iranian digital asset inflows in 2025' and was utilized by 'Iran's central bank and the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), a US-designated terrorist organization,…
Sanctions
Investigation by Dossier Center and Süddeutsche Zeitung uncovered Russia procured MAN diesel engines for FSB patrol vessels through Turkey-Hong Kong intermediary network. St. Petersburg shipyard Almaz received at least six engines worth 760,000 euros via firm Kronstadt.
Sanctions
DOJ charged Jamshid Ghomi, 63-year-old Iranian-American technology executive in California, for conspiracy to violate International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
Money laundering
French prosecutors filed preliminary charges against HSBC's Swiss private banking unit for alleged organized money laundering and conspiracy related to suspected $300 million embezzlement by Riad Salameh, former governor of Lebanon's central bank.
OFAC confirmed that GAESA (Grupo de Administración Empresarial S.A.), MININT, and MINFAR are blocked pursuant to Executive Order 14404 relating to Cuba sanctions. All three entities blocked as of June 4, 2026. GAESA is a conglomerate owned by Cuban Revolutionary Armed Forces.
Money laundering
Russia sanctioned Alexander Browder, 17-year-old son of Kremlin critic Bill Browder, after he published a report for the Henry Jackson Society exposing the A7A5 ruble-pegged stablecoin's role in helping Russia, Iran, and North Korea launder $350 billion.
Russian presidential aide Maksim Oreshkin stated at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum that Russia should not expect sanctions to be lifted and needs to move from defensive tactics to a proactive approach in responding to sanctions. This indicates ongoing systemic sanctions evasion infrastructure.
Sanctions
Bellingcat investigation reveals multiple technical connections between Viory, a UAE-based video news agency operating across the Global South, and Ruptly, a subsidiary of sanctioned Russian state media outlet Russia Today.
Sanctions
On May 28, 2026, the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) published its findings after reviewing 150 authorized firms' sanctions systems and controls, concluding that while firms have materially improved since 2022, significant gaps remain.
Sanctions
FBI agents arrested Jamshid Ghomi, 63-year-old dual Iranian-American citizen, on June 3, 2026. Charged with conspiracy to violate International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) for sanctions evasion related to transactions with Iran.
Money laundering
Jamshid Ghomi, 63, dual U.S.-Iranian citizen and CEO of Tehran-based Faraz Pardaz Rayaneh Co. Ltd., arrested for violating sanctions by supplying sophisticated U.S. networking, security, and encryption equipment to Iran's Atomic Energy Organization and military.
U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned four Iranian crypto exchangers (Nobitex, Bitpin, Ramzinex, Wallex) and four Iranian citizens including Amirhossein Rad (CEO and founder of Nobitex) and Syed Ali Khoyee (current CEO).
Bribery & corruption
The European Union approved a new directive strengthening criminal penalties for corruption across all member states.
OFAC sanctioned Nobitex (Iran's largest cryptocurrency exchange processing over 50% of Iranian digital asset inflows in 2025), along with Wallex, Bitpin, and Ramzinex exchanges, plus four individuals including Nobitex chairman Amir Hossein Rad and brothers from the Kharrazi family.
OFAC designated Nobitex — Iran's largest crypto exchange — and Wallex, Bitpin, and Ramzinex for sanctions evasion, terrorist financing and helping prop up the Iranian regime. This is the Treasury Department's largest action yet against Iran's digital asset economy.
US Treasury sanctioned four Iranian nationals and four major crypto exchanges (Nobitex, Bitpin, Ramzinex, Wallex) for sanctions evasion and terror financing. Nobitex processed over 50% of Iran's 2025 digital asset inflows.
The US Office of Foreign Assets Control imposed a $1 million penalty on FTI Consulting for engaging in a payment arrangement with VTB Bank, a US-sanctioned Russian financial institution.
Sanctions
The United States imposed sanctions on Nobitex, Iran's largest cryptocurrency exchange controlled by two brothers from a prominent Iranian family, citing alleged connections to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and use of the platform to circumvent banking restrictions.
Sanctions
On May 27, 2026, BaFin imposed an administrative fine of €80,000 on Resolution Capital Limited for breach of supervisory duties in connection with contravention of the German Securities Trading Act (WpHG).
Fraud & scams
Alexey Sedushkin, general director of broker 'Investment Chamber,' and Yulia Khandoshko, head of European broker Mind Money, were arrested in Moscow. According to prosecutors, a criminal case was opened against them for fraud committed by an organized group or on an especially large scale.
French naval forces intercepted the oil tanker Tagor in the Atlantic Ocean on May 31, 2026. The vessel was under sanctions from the US, EU, UK, and Ukraine since February 2026.
Sanctions
Proyekt investigation revealed that former FSB chief Nikolai Patrushev, oligarchs Roman Abramovich and Vladimir Yevtushenkov were beneficiaries of the A7 cross-border payment network evading sanctions.
Money laundering
French authorities detained a Russian shadow fleet tanker. The network of Mohammad Hussein Shamhani includes shell companies that launder billions of dollars in profits from Iranian and Russian crude oil, with Iran having extensive experience in evading international sanctions.
Sanctions
IRGC-Quds Force operative Hossein Hafez Amini, a naturalized Turkish citizen, operated Rey Airlines as logistical platform for covert IRGC activities; company now suspended in Turkish trade registries.
Sanctions
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced at the Reagan National Economic Forum that the U.S. has seized approximately $1 billion in Iranian-linked cryptocurrency as part of Operation Economic Fury.
Sanctions
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced seizure of approximately $1 billion in cryptocurrency linked to Iran's Defense Ministry and sanctioned four Iranian crypto exchanges (Nobitex, BitPin, Wallex, Ramzinex) that processed at least $2.3 billion for sanctioned entities since 2023.
On May 29, 2026, OFAC issued Counter Terrorism Designations and Iran-related Designations along with a Russia-related General License.
The UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2821 (2026) on May 29, 2026, extending sanctions on South Sudan for one year until May 31, 2027.
Sanctions
United States Treasury Department added the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to its Specially Designated Nationals list as part of new Iran-related sanctions measures. The designation targets the authority's role in Iran's maritime control operations in the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz.
Sanctions
Kyrgyz authorities announced that 50 companies believed to be helping Russia evade sanctions were being forced to shut their operations in the country. This is the first time Kyrgyzstan has shuttered companies over cooperation with sanctioned entities.
Sanctions
UK imposed major sanctions package on May 26, 2026 targeting cryptocurrency exchanges and illicit finance networks used by Russia. First application of correspondent banking and payment processing restrictions to crypto exchanges.
Sanctions
UK sanctioned 18 entities May 26, 2026 including HTX (formerly Huobi) exchange and A7A5 ruble-pegged stablecoin for helping Russia evade sanctions. Global Ledger report claimed HTX processed $21 billion in 'high-risk' crypto flows 2021-May 2026, with at least $7.
UK imposed fresh sanctions targeting crypto and illicit finance networks operating in Kyrgyzstan and Georgia that enable Russia to procure goods needed for its war effort, designating 18 entities and individuals.
The UK sanctioned 18 entities including HTX (formerly Huobi) cryptocurrency exchange and the A7A5 ruble-backed stablecoin network for helping Russia evade sanctions and finance its war in Ukraine. HTX allegedly channeled over $1.
Money laundering
Judge Marcelo Aguinsky charged Luis Fernando Vuteff, Argentine financier, with money laundering of illicit sources conducted habitually and imposed an embargo of $5.1 million USD. Vuteff was convicted in the US (December 2024) to 30 months in prison for conspiracy to launder $1.
Sanctions
UK sanctioned 18 entities and individuals comprising the Kremlin-backed 'A7 Network' which moved over $90 billion in 2025—equivalent to roughly half Russia's yearly military expenditure. Targets include HTX (formerly Huobi), a major global cryptocurrency exchange suspected of channeling over $1.
Sanctions
The UK sanctioned 18 cryptocurrency exchanges, payment providers, and individuals for helping Russia bypass international trade blockades using digital assets. Major targets include HTX (formerly Huobi Global S.A.), which is suspected of channeling over $1.
Money laundering
UAE Federal Prosecution participated in five-day BRICS international anti-money laundering program.
Sanctions
The United States expanded sanctions targeting Lebanon's institutional power structure, including close associates of Speaker Nabih Berri and military officials.
Sanctions
Wall Street Journal reported Babak Zanjani's financial network processed $850 million through Binance over two years ending 2024. Associates including sister, romantic partner, and company manager operated accounts managed from unified hardware devices to circumvent U.S. sanctions.
Sanctions
The AMF Sanctions Commission condemned on 20 May 2026 Mr. Ytane Mamou to a fine of €30,000 and his cousin Mr. Elie Houri to €20,000 for insider trading.
Sanctions
United States imposed sanctions on nine individuals accused of enabling Hezbollah to 'undermine Lebanon's sovereignty', including members of Lebanon's parliament, an Iranian diplomat and security officials in Lebanese governmental institutions.
Sanctions
Kyrgyzstan's Justice Ministry announced the suspension of 50 companies flagged by Western partners for suspected Russia sanctions circumvention. Deputy Prime Minister Daniyar Amangeldiev stated the government conducted an investigation and suspended the registration of 50 companies.
Sanctions
FCA published review of over 150 firms' sanctions controls since February 2022, identifying systemic weaknesses including inadequate customer due diligence, poor alert management, deficient name and transaction screening, and improper frozen asset handling.
Money laundering
OFAC sanctioned 12 individuals and 2 entities linked to the Sinaloa Cartel for fentanyl trafficking and cryptocurrency money laundering.
Money laundering
Swiss regulator FINMA launched consultation (until June 9, 2026) on partially revised AML Ordinance addressing beneficial ownership transparency, Embargo Act compliance to prevent sanctions breaches, and FATF recommendations implementation.
Money laundering
Investigation reveals Zarrinqalam family-based financial network suspected of laundering funds for IRGC operates from London using shell companies in China and UAE.
Money laundering
Investigation reveals the Zaringhalam family operates an IRGC-linked money laundering network from London through currency exchange offices. Eight members identified, including Fazlollah Zaringhalam (74, British citizen, London resident) who owns Zaringhalam & Partners Exchange.
Sanctions
The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation imposed a penalty of £165,000 on Deutsche Bank AG London Branch for processing two payments totalling £635,618.75 to Okko LLC, a sanctioned Russian app developer, on behalf of an Irish-incorporated corporate customer.
Sanctions
Russia imported second Airbus A320 aircraft (registration RA-73899) through Oman to circumvent sanctions. Plane arrived at Vnukovo Airport mid-May after traveling from Istanbul to Muscat before receiving Russian registration.
Sanctions
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called on allies to disrupt Iran's financial networks. Treasury reviewed sanctions list and directed U.S. banks to monitor oil labeled as 'Malaysian blend' in shipping documents, frequently used to conceal Iranian origin.
Money laundering
Iran International investigation revealed eight members of the Zarrinqalam family, who own multiple currency exchange businesses, established a money laundering network to assist the IRGC in circumventing international sanctions.
Swiss Federal Police (Fedpol) Annual Report 2025 disclosed investigation into Russian funds held by sanctioned Russian oligarch, described as 'one of largest cases involving money laundering for purpose of evading sanctions'.
OFAC announced $275,000,000 settlement with Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL), Ahmedabad, India-based company, to settle potential civil liability for 32 apparent violations of Iran sanctions.
Sanctions
German authorities uncovered major sanctions-evasion scheme in May 2026 that allegedly supplied Russia's military industry with European dual-use technology through front companies and Turkish intermediaries. Approximately 16,000 shipments valued at over $34 million.
Sanctions
The ACPR Sanctions Commission imposed on 13 May 2026 a reprimand and a pecuniary sanction of twenty million euros to Société Générale for its insurance intermediary activity. This is the highest sanction ever pronounced by the ACPR since 2018.
Sanctions
A7A5 ruble-pegged stablecoin processed over $110 billion cumulative onchain transactions, capturing 43% of global non-USD stablecoin market.
The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) investigated over 240 sanctions breaches and issued 57 enforcement actions over the past year, including fines and disclosure notices.
U.S. federal indictment against Iranian national Shamim Mafi details how Turkish financial channels, currency exchanges, and corporate networks facilitated transfer of Iranian weapons to Sudan's Ministry of Defense in violation of U.S. sanctions. Mafi allegedly brokered $72.
Iran relies on hawala networks operating through exchange houses and brokers in Dubai, Kuwait, and Gulf Arab states, with entire Telegram channels tracking daily 'hawala (Emirati) dirhams' rates between Dubai and Iran and Omani rials into Iranian accounts.
Sanctions
On May 14, the economic criminal court rejected AFA's and Claudio 'Chiqui' Tapia's attempt to appeal the decision to prosecute for alleged improper withholding of tax and social security contributions linked to Argentine football clubs.
Iran relies on exchange houses, brokers and informal hawala networks across the Middle East, mostly in Gulf Arab states, to help its economy remain resilient under sanctions. Transfers often settle in less than 48 hours and cost just 1-5 percent of the transferred sum.
Sanctions
The ACPR Sanctions Commission issued a reprimand and a financial penalty of €20 million against Société Générale in its capacity as an insurance intermediary.
Sanctions
The DFSA fined reinsurance broker Wael Abdelmohsen Abdellatif Mohamed Emara (Mohsen) $139,722 (Dh513,129) and prohibited him from holding office or working at any DFSA-authorised firm. He is also restricted from carrying out any function connected to financial services in or from DIFC.
Money laundering
US Treasury directed banks to intensify monitoring of Iranian money laundering networks concealing proceeds from sanctioned oil sales.
Sanctions
UAE Cabinet designated 21 individuals and entities as terrorists due to connections to Hezbollah. All assets to be investigated and frozen following Cabinet decision.
The US Treasury Department instructed American financial institutions to identify and report suspected money laundering networks connected to Iran that allegedly use shell companies and cryptocurrency to obscure illegal oil sales circumventing sanctions, according to Payam Javan.
OFAC designated 12 individuals and entities for facilitating IRGC oil sales to China through front companies.
U.S. Treasury sanctioned 3 individuals and 9 entities in May 2026, including four Hong Kong-based companies that played a key role in facilitating money transfers and circumventing Iran's oil sanctions in Asian markets by facilitating Iranian oil transfers to China.
FinCEN issued alert FIN-2026-Alert002 outlining funding streams and procurement networks supporting Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Money laundering
The UK Foreign Secretary announced sanctions targeting organisations and individuals enabling hostile Iranian activity, imposing travel bans, asset freezes, and director disqualification orders on nine people and three entities.
OFAC issued Counter Terrorism and Counter Narcotics designations on May 8, 2026, blocking property and interests in property of certain persons under U.S. jurisdiction.
Sanctions
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission has obtained 13-year disqualification orders in the Court of First Instance against three former top executives of China Candy Holdings Limited: Xu Jinpei (former chairman), Hong Yinzhi (former CEO), and Wang Zhihong (former chief financial controller).
Money laundering
Following OCCRP's Dubai Unlocked investigation (70+ media outlets, published May 2026), FATF pledged experts will examine findings and consider them in assessing UAE's AML efforts.
Sanctions
Joint investigation by OCCRP and Follow the Money reveals Western shipowners earned at least $6.3 billion selling hundreds of aging tankers to shell companies that became part of Russia's shadow fleet. At least 230 vessels from Europe and U.S.
BaFin imposed three fines totaling €140,000 on DLT Securities GmbH for violations of German Money Laundering Act, including failure to establish adequate business and customer-related internal security measures.
Sanctions
Reuters investigation found that brothers Ali and Mohammad Kharrazi (using surname Aghamir) turned Nobitex into Iran's dominant cryptocurrency provider managing ~70% of Iran's crypto transactions.
Sanctions
Russian oligarchs allegedly use A7 payments company for sanctions evasion via ruble-backed cryptocurrency A7A5. Founded 2024 by Moldovan oligarch Ilan Shor.
Money laundering
CHP Istanbul Deputy Fethi Açıkel submitted 11 questions regarding allegations that the Treasury and Finance Ministry is preparing a new asset reconciliation.
Sanctions
U.S. Treasury sanctioned 35 entities and individuals involved in Iran's shadow banking operations under 'Economic Wrath' campaign. Network allegedly moved tens of billions of dollars linked to sanctions evasion.
An investigation by Proekt alleges that billionaires Roman Abramovich and Viktor Kharitonin may be connected to A7, a payment platform established in 2024 to facilitate cross-border money transfers circumventing Western sanctions.
Bribery & corruption
EU Directive 2026/1021 of 29 April 2026 was published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 11 May 2026. This directive redefines the European criminal framework against corruption and requires France to overhaul its legal arsenal by 2028.
Sanctions
EU's 20th sanctions package expanded the banned crypto-assets list: RUBx and the digital ruble joined A7A5 in sanctions annexes, both effective May 24, 2026.
Sanctions
The EU unveiled its 20th Russia sanctions package in late April 2026, imposing a total ban on the country's crypto providers and platforms and blocking the central bank's digital ruble and the RUBx stablecoin.
Money laundering
France's ACPR Sanctions Commission issued Decision No. 2024-06 on 19 March 2026, imposing a formal reprimand and a financial penalty of €1.
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Sanctions
OFAC designated four major Iranian cryptocurrency exchanges: Nobitex, Wallex, Bitpin, and Ramzinex as part of Trump administration's Economic Fury campaign.
Money laundering
EU introduced its 20th sanctions package on May 24, 2026, implementing a complete sectoral ban on all transactions with Russian crypto services. The sanctions targeted the digital ruble, stablecoins (RUBx, A7A5), and any schemes to circumvent payment restrictions.
Sanctions
EU introduced sanctions against entities, including from Kyrgyzstan, for helping Russia evade sanctions. The EU's 20th sanctions package placed 120 individuals and legal entities under blocking restrictions.
EU adopted its largest crypto sanctions package in history (effective May 24, 2026): total sectoral ban on all Russia-based crypto service providers and platforms; ban on four Russian-linked digital assets including RUBx stablecoin, Russia's digital ruble CBDC, and Belarusian Digital Ruble; designation of TengriCoin (Kyrgyz exchange trading A7A5 stablecoin which processed $119.
Sanctions
EU added TengriCoin to sanctions list on April 23, 2026, as part of 20th sanctions package against Russia. TengriCoin operates Meer platform, major marketplace for trading A7A5, Russian government-backed ruble stablecoin backed by funds at Promsvyazbank.
OFAC designated Cambodian senator Kok An and 28 individuals and entities in his network for controlling scam compounds throughout Cambodia used for digital asset investment fraud targeting Americans.
Polish tax authorities imposed record 20 million PLN fine (approximately $5.5 million) in April 2026 on company operated by Belarusian citizens in Małopolska region for sanctions violations. Company sent over 100 luxury cars worth PLN 49 million (€11.6 million) to Russia between 2022-2023.
On April 21, 2026, OFAC sanctioned 14 individuals, entities, and aircraft based in Iran, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates for their alleged involvement in procuring or transporting weapons or weapons components on behalf of the Iranian regime.
Money laundering
Daniel Kinahan, Irish organized crime boss sanctioned by the US in 2022 for drug smuggling and money laundering, was arrested in Dubai on an Irish extradition warrant.
Sanctions
Russia-linked cryptocurrency exchange Grinex suspended operations on April 16, 2026, after cyberattack resulting in loss of 1 billion rubles ($13.7 million).
Money laundering
The UK National Crime Agency charged 75-year-old British financier John Michael Ormerod with money laundering and violating sanctions against Russia in April 2026.
Grinex, Kyrgyzstan-based cryptocurrency exchange (successor to sanctioned Garantex), suspended operations after hack resulting in theft of 1 billion rubles ($13.7M) on April 15, 2026. Exchange was primary trading hub for A7A5 ruble-backed token designed for sanctions evasion.
Money laundering
U.S. Treasury sanctions revealed that gold smuggled from Venezuela in exchange for Iranian oil was being flown to Tehran and then smuggled to Turkey, where it was sold on the black market to finance Hezbollah operations.
The Crown Prosecution Service charged John Michael Ormerod, 75, with two criminal offences: unlawfully handling £200,000 subject to asset freeze rules and transferring £100,000 suspected to be criminal proceeds.
UAE Central Bank (CBUAE) introduced comprehensive update to Anti-Money Laundering, Combating Financing of Terrorism, and Countering Proliferation Financing framework April 16, 2026, aligning with FATF standards ahead of expected FATF onsite mutual evaluation mid-2026.
Russia-linked crypto exchange Grinex (designated as Garantex's successor, sanctioned by OFAC August 2025) suspended operations April 16, 2026 after alleged hack drained approximately 1 billion rubles ($13-15 million) in USDT.
Money laundering
On April 14, 2026, OFAC sanctioned six targets involved in a money laundering and cash smuggling enterprise operated by Cartel del Noreste (CDN), one of Mexico's most violent drug trafficking organizations.
OFAC sanctioned over two dozen individuals, companies, and vessels tied to Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani's multi-billion dollar oil smuggling network.
France's National Agency for Secure Titles (ANTS/France Titres) suffered cyberattack on April 15, 2026, with Ministry of Interior confirming April 20 that 11.7 million accounts affected (estimates range 12-19 million).
Money laundering
US Treasury OFAC sanctioned oil smuggling network run by Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, son of deceased senior Iranian security official Ali Shamkhani, announced April 15, 2026.
Money laundering
On April 1, 2026, the AMF imposed a €300,000 fine on Kerdiz Finance et Conseil and €75,000 fines each on directors Anthony Finck and Marc Peuvrier, plus a five-year ban on financial advisory activity.
Sanctions
On 18 March 2026, the General Directorate of the Treasury (DG Trésor) and the Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR) published new joint guidelines on asset freezing, replacing the previous version of 16 June 2021.
Fraud & scams
AB, a blockchain network partnered with Trump family's World Liberty Financial, promoted a cryptocurrency resort in Timor-Leste involving three individuals later sanctioned by the U.S.
Sanctions
UAE authorities detained dozens of money changers connected to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, shutting down associated companies and closing their offices in a significant disruption to Tehran's sanctions-evasion infrastructure, according to the report.
Sanctions
UAE arrested numerous money changers connected to Iran's IRGC, dealing a blow to Tehran's sanctions-evasion infrastructure.
Sanctions
Investigation reveals A7A5 stablecoin processed $119.7B, functions as purpose-built settlement rail for sanctioned Russian businesses. Backed by Promsvyazbank deposits (state-owned bank supporting military industrial base), majority-owned by convicted oligarch Ilan Shor.
Money laundering
UK's Financial Conduct Authority issued decision March 13, 2026 banning Kasım Garipoğlu from financial activities.
Bank of Israel's Sanctions Committee imposed a 6.8 million shekel financial penalty on Mizrahi Tefahot Bank for violations of the Anti-Money Laundering Law.
On March 18, 2026, ACPR and Direction générale du Trésor published updated guidelines on implementing asset freezing measures, replacing June 2021 text.
Fraud & scams
The former Chief Executive Officer of Nodus International Bank pleaded guilty for leading a scheme to fraudulently obtain at least $24.9 million from Nodus Bank and conspiring to evade U.S. sanctions against Venezuela. The scheme involved efforts to evade U.S.
UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation imposed £390,000 penalty on Apple Distribution International Limited (Irish subsidiary) for making two payments totaling £635,618.
Fraud & scams
A judicial settlement agreement of public interest (CJIP) was concluded on January 6, 2026 between the National Financial Prosecutor's Office and HSBC Bank plc, validated by the Paris judicial court president on January 8, 2026.
Money laundering
The ACPR Sanctions Commission issued a reprimand and a pecuniary sanction of €1.3 million to MoneyGram International SA on 19 March 2026.
Sanctions
German police arrested five men for delivering more than 16,000 shipments to at least 24 Russian arms companies since 2022, in breach of EU sanctions.
Money laundering
Kuwait Ministry of Commerce and Industry issued Ministerial Decision No. 25 of 2026 establishing comprehensive anti-money laundering violations framework with three severity tiers. Low-risk violations: fines up to 500,000 KWD. Medium-risk: fines plus 3-month license suspension.
World Bank imposed debarment with conditional release on Aktif Elektroteknik San ve Tic A.S. for minimum of one year and three months following findings of corrupt and fraudulent practices in Iraq.
Sanctions
Bellingcat and The Sunday Times uncovered documents linking ex-UFC fighter Mounir 'The Sniper' Lazzez to multimillion-dollar shipping deals involving crude oil tankers that were later sanctioned by the US government for helping the Iranian regime.
Money laundering
U.S. Federal Reserve terminated two long-standing enforcement orders against Standard Chartered and its American arm on February 26, 2026. Orders originally issued on December 10, 2012 and April 8, 2019, had required bank to strengthen controls and governance tied to past violations of U.S.
OFAC designated six individuals and two entities for facilitating North Korean IT worker fraud schemes that generated nearly $800 million in 2024 to fund DPRK weapons programs. Network includes Amnokgang Technology Development Company and facilitators in Vietnam, Laos, Spain.
Sanctions
The Insider analyzed Russian foreign trade data from 2024-2025 and identified over 6,000 foreign exporting firms supplying Russia's defense sector despite sanctions.
Sanctions
Investigation analyzing 2024-2025 foreign trade data identified over 6,000 companies trading with sanctioned Russian enterprises and defense contractors, including approximately 4,000 Chinese firms (Henan New Silk Road International delivered 100+ turbojet engines worth $3M to sanctioned Chipdevice…
The Insider investigation analyzed Russian companies' foreign trade data for 2024-2025 and identified over 6,000 foreign firms (including ~4,000 Chinese and Hong Kong, ~300 Turkish, 120 UAE, and 60 Indian companies) directly or indirectly supplying the Russian military-industrial complex while ignoring international sanctions.
Sanctions
VARA has imposed financial penalties on 19 firms for carrying out unlicensed Virtual Asset activities and for breaches of VARA's Marketing Regulations, with sanctions including cease-and-desist orders and fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 600,000.
Sanctions
Turkish state-owned Halkbank reached a deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. Justice Department to settle charges over evasion of Iranian sanctions, ending a nine-year legal battle.
Turkish state-owned Halkbank reached DPA with DOJ to resolve criminal case alleging fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy to help Iran evade U.S. sanctions through money servicers and front companies in Iran, Turkey, and UAE.
Money laundering
U.S. DOJ and Halkbank reached deferred prosecution agreement on March 9, 2026. Bank faced allegations of covertly transferring ~$20 billion in restricted Iranian funds, converting oil revenues into gold and cash to help Iran circumvent U.S. sanctions.
Money laundering
Bellingcat investigation revealed Daniel and Christy Kinahan, leaders of €1.5 billion Kinahan cartel, photographed at Dubai MMA event in June 2025, marking most recent sighting since U.S. government placed multi-million dollar bounties on them.
Fraud & scams
Department of Justice filed civil forfeiture complaints against $15.
Sanctions
Nation-state crypto use moved decisively into billions—Russia's A7A5 ruble-pegged stablecoin processed $93B+ in under one year, functioning as purpose-built settlement rail for sanctioned actors connecting Russia with counterparties across China, Southeast Asia, Iran.
Sanctions
Investigation reveals Georgia's Kulevi oil refinery may be facilitating Russian oil exports allegedly disguised as Georgian products. Georgia's oil product exports jumped 3,300% to $56 million in January 2026.
Sanctions
US Treasury sanctioned three Turkish shell companies in February 2026 for facilitating Iran's drone and missile procurement networks. Firms Utuş, Arya, and Altis established late 2024 with minimal capitalization and broad business descriptions to obscure actual function.
On February 18, 2026, the Paris court approved a judicial public interest agreement (CJIP) between the PNF and PÉRIPHÉRIQUES ET MATÉRIELS DE CONTRÔLE SAS following an investigation into corruption of a foreign public official and money laundering.
Sanctions
The DGCCRF announced on February 24, 2026 sanctions totaling 9.2 million euros against two entities of the BPCE group for misleading commercial practices related to intervention commissions.
Money laundering
FINMA withdrew license of MBaer Merchant Bank AG and ordered liquidation following serious AML/sanctions compliance failures. Bank enabled clients to circumvent official asset freezes; 80% of business relationships carried increased risks, with 98% of recent assets from high-risk clients.
Sanctions
The UN Security Council Committee concerning Sudan added four individuals to its sanctions list, all affiliated with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF): Gedo Hamdan Ahmed (Commander for North Darfur section), Abdul Rahim Hamdan Dagalo (RSF Deputy Leader and brother of RSF head), Al-Fateh Abdullah Idris (Brigadier General), and Tijani Ibrahim Moussa Mohamed (Field Commander).
Sanctions
The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation imposed a £160,000 monetary penalty on Bank of Scotland Plc for breaching Russia financial sanctions regulations in January 2026.
Financial Times identified a network of 48 companies involved in transporting Russian oil in circumvention of sanctions worth $90 billion. All 48 companies were discovered to use the same private email server, revealing a coordinated sanctions evasion scheme.
Sanctions
Financial Times investigation identified 48 ostensibly independent companies operating as coordinated network exporting over $90 billion in sanctioned Russian crude. Discovery made through shared email infrastructure: all 442 web domains used single mail server 'mx.phoenixtrading.ltd'.
Fraud & scams
Bellingcat found evidence of new registry offering flag registration in Nicaragua with links to maritime fraud schemes. Found certificate issued as recently as February 2 for sanctioned tanker Al Jafzia.
Sanctions
According to an investigation by Hunterbrook published by The Insider, Ubiquiti networking equipment has become foundational communications infrastructure for Russian forces in Ukraine, despite active U.S. and EU sanctions.
Money laundering
New U.S. sanctions reveal Turkish firms and shipping companies have been designated by Washington, signaling that Turkey's territory and corporate registry are being exploited by sanctioned networks to launder trade flows, move restricted goods and disguise the origin of Iranian exports.
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Sanctions
IMF economist noted in February 2026 that Armenia was helping Russia circumvent EU sanctions, pointing to unprecedented rise in EU goods shipments being processed through Armenian customs and then repackaged and sent to Moscow.
Money laundering
Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's investigation (case 2026/8080) uncovered organization using fake export/import invoices to bring money of unknown origin into Turkey and benefit from foreign exchange conversion support.
Sanctions
U.S. State Department announced new sanctions targeting Iran's petrochemical trade, placing 15 companies and 14 vessels on enforcement list.
OFAC added individuals and entities to SDN List under EO 13846, targeting illicit Iranian oil trading and shadow fleet operations.
Money laundering
The Paris Court of Appeal confirmed the six-month suspension of a young lawyer from the Paris bar, aged 29, specializing in immigration law, for defrauding approximately 100 clients, mainly persons in irregular situation.
German federal prosecutors arrested five men for allegedly violating European Union sanctions against Russia by exporting more than €30 million ($36 million) in industrial goods to customers that included at least 24 Russian arms manufacturers.
Fraud & scams
OFAC designated UK-registered cryptocurrency exchanges Zedcex Exchange Ltd and Zedxion Exchange Ltd for facilitating nearly $1 billion in IRGC-related transactions, primarily through Tether (USDT) on the Tron network.
Sanctions
The AMF Sanctions Committee condemned Makor Securities Paris to a fine of €700,000 and its director Yankel Hassan to €150,000 for serious failings in their market abuse detection system.
Sanctions
OFSI imposed a £160,000 penalty on Bank of Scotland Plc for breaching the Russia financial sanctions regime by processing 24 payments over 16 days in February 2023 for a designated ex-Russian politician, with aggregate value exceeding £77,000.
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated shipping and vessel-management companies along with nine vessels on January 23, 2026, accused of supporting Iranian oil and petroleum-product exports.
Money laundering
In its decision of 31 December 2025, the Sanctions Commission imposed fines of 200,000 €, 70,000 € and 35,000 € respectively against M Capital Partners and its executives, Rudy Secco and Stéphanie Minissier, for breaches of several professional obligations between August 2019 and December 2023.
Sanctions
On April 13, 2026, the Paris Criminal Court convicted Lafarge and four former senior executives of financing terrorism and violating international sanctions. The cement maker was found guilty of financing terrorist groups - notably the Islamic State - totaling €5.
Money laundering
EU's Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) launched consultations in February 2026 on three draft regulatory technical standards: (1) customer due diligence, (2) criteria for identifying business relationships, occasional transactions, and linked transactions, and (3) financial sanctions, administrative measures, and periodic penalty payments.
Money laundering
In its decision of 10 December 2025, the Sanctions Commission imposed fines of 400,000 € and 100,000 € respectively against asset management company Novaxia Investissement and one of its former executives, Joachim Azan, for breaching several professional obligations.
Central Bank of UAE revoked licence of Omda Exchange operating in UAE, struck name off Register and imposed financial sanction of AED 10 million following supervisory examinations. Action taken under Decretal Federal Law on Central Bank and Organisation of Financial Institutions and Activities.
Money laundering
ACPR imposed €250,000 fine and reprimand on Banque Chaabi du Maroc for AML/CFT deficiencies and internal control failures despite prior 2013 sanction; penalty reduced due to bank's remediation costs, small size, and fragile financial situation.
Money laundering
On November 7, 2025, the ACPR Sanctions Commission sanctioned Banque Chaabi du Maroc (BCDM), French subsidiary of Banque Centrale Populaire du Maroc, with a reprimand and a fine of EUR 250,000 for serious failures in its anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) framework as well as failures in internal controls.
Sanctions
On July 21, 2026, the AMF Sanctions Commission imposed fines totalling €210,000 on Financière Fonds Privés (€100,000) and its executives Pierre-Michel Deléglise (€70,000) and Thierry de Chambure (€40,000).
Money laundering
Chen Zhi, founder and chairman of Prince Holding Group, charged with wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy for directing forced-labor scam compounds across Cambodia engaged in 'pig butchering' cryptocurrency fraud.
Money laundering
Poland's Central Bureau of Investigation arrested 20 individuals in mid-September 2025 for smuggling approximately 600 luxury cars (BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, Lexus, Range Rover) to Russia and Belarus violating EU sanctions.
Sanctions
In its decision of 15 September 2025, the Sanctions Commission imposed fines of 600,000 €, 500,000 € and 200,000 € respectively against asset management company Altaroc Partners and its executives, Maurice Tchenio and Patrick de Giovanni, for breaches of their professional obligations.
Money laundering
OFAC sanctioned Iranian financial facilitators operating a $600 million shadow banking network that used cryptocurrency to launder $100 million in oil proceeds for Iran's military through front companies.
Money laundering
Transparency International - Russia published investigation about Garantex crypto exchange, which the US called the largest Russian platform for money laundering and evading international sanctions.
Sanctions
UK designated cryptocurrency exchange Huobi Global (HTX), which channeled over $1.5 billion to Russia, along with 3 Georgian crypto exchanges and the A7 network that moved $9.3 billion through A7A5 ruble-backed stablecoin in four months.
Sanctions
U.S. Treasury OFAC sanctioned three Russian nationals and several companies on August 14, 2025 for operating Garantex cryptocurrency exchange specializing in ruble-to-stablecoin exchanges used to circumvent restrictions.
Sanctions
OFAC sanctioned 18 Iranian entities and individuals for circumventing US sanctions and generating revenue for the regime.
Sanctions
The ECB issued an administrative penalty of €6.94 million to Belfius Banque S.A. / Belfius Bank S.A./N.V. for non-compliance with requirements related to implementing internal models.
Sanctions
DOJ's National Security Division issued first declination under corporate self-disclosure policy for Robert Bosch GmbH, resolving investigation into alleged scheme to send products containing U.S. technology to Entity-listed Huawei in PRC. Bosch will pay $36.
Money laundering
FBI arrested Russian crypto company founder in New York on allegations of laundering $500 million and evading sanctions imposed on Russia. Individual accused of conducting illicit financial operations to circumvent international restrictions through cryptocurrency platforms.
US prosecutors charged Russian citizen Yuri Gugnin with 22 counts including fraud and money laundering. His cryptocurrency company Evita allegedly served as front for laundering hundreds of millions of dollars for sanctioned Russian companies and facilitating evasion of export controls.
Money laundering
Central Bank of UAE imposed financial sanctions totaling AED 12.3 million ($3.35 million) on six exchange houses operating in UAE for violations and failures to comply with AML/CFT framework and related regulations. Action taken pursuant to Article 14 of Federal Decree Law No.
Money laundering
Iurii Gugnin, 38, Russian citizen residing in New York, charged with using cryptocurrency company Evita to funnel over $530 million through U.S. banks while hiding transactions for sanctioned Russian banks (Sberbank, Sovcombank, VTB, Tinkoff, Alfa-Bank).
Money laundering
US Treasury sanctions targeting over 30 entities and individuals operating Iran's shadow banking network that laundered billions of dollars.
Money laundering
The Central Bank of the UAE imposed a Dh100 million penalty on an unnamed exchange house for significant failures in its Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organizations framework and related regulations.
Money laundering
Central Bank of UAE imposed Dh200 million fine on unnamed exchange house for major violations of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regulations. Investigation revealed serious compliance failures in AML framework.
Money laundering
The Central Bank of the UAE imposed sanctions on five insurance brokers for deficiencies in their AML/CFT compliance frameworks and sanctions controls. Two insurance brokers received financial penalties, while three others received formal warnings.
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated three transnational criminal organizations for operating and materially supporting a Chinese-language illicit marketplace used by scam centers, money launderers, and other illicit actors to defraud Americans.
Sanctions
U.S. State Department sanctioned Kimpaş Kimya, Turkish petrochemical supplier, for conducting approximately $15 million in unlawful trade with Iran as part of broader effort to disrupt roughly $500 million smuggling operation. Company added to U.S.
Money laundering
ADGM's Financial Services Regulatory Authority imposed total financial penalties of $12.46 million on Hayvn Group of Companies, AC Holding Limited, AC Limited, and former CEO Christopher Flinos for serious regulatory breaches.
Money laundering
DOJ, German, and Finnish authorities coordinated seizure of Garantex cryptocurrency exchange domains and servers, freezing over $26 million in illicit funds.
Money laundering
OFAC sanctioned four Kyrgyzstan companies (Mirdk Fyuels, Suprim Ef Iks, Sakhara Petroleum, Royal Sona) on December 9, 2024 for gold smuggling and money laundering. All registered March 30, 2023 at same address, curated by David Paul Crosby of Skorus Investments.
U.S. Treasury took sweeping action targeting Russia's primary revenue source with sanctions against major oil producers including Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, more than 180 vessels—many part of the shadow fleet—along with opaque traders of Russian oil, Russia-based oilfield service providers,…
Sanctions
Investigation reveals that Russia is attempting to build 'sovereign internet' and expand surveillance capabilities, but key players in system integration and server solutions depend on imported components from Taiwan, China, and Korea.
US and UK announced exposure of TGR Group and Smart international network that helped Russian elites use cryptocurrency to bypass sanctions and launder money. Through TGR Group, Russian elites used digital assets, particularly dollar-backed stablecoins, to bypass US and international sanctions.
US and UK uncovered international money laundering network (Smart and TGR companies) operating in 30 countries, coordinated from Moscow, London, and Dubai. Networks helped Russian elites evade sanctions and laundered billions for drug traffickers, financial criminals, and foreign spies.
OFAC designated five individuals and four entities tied to TGR Group money laundering operation.
Money laundering
NCA Operation Destabilise exposed two Russian-speaking networks, Smart (led by Ekaterina Zhdanova) and TGR (led by George Rossi/Maksakov), laundering billions for Russian elites, cybercriminals, drug gangs, and firearms smugglers.
Money laundering
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) has concluded enforcement proceedings against private bank Mirabaud & Cie SA, finding that the bank 'seriously violated' provisions of financial market law concerning anti-money laundering obligations.
Money laundering
Lithuanian FCIS fined cryptocurrency company Payeer €9.3 million (€8.23M for sanctions breaches, €1.06M for AML violations). Payeer allowed Russian customers to conduct transactions in rubles with sanctioned Russian banks through Payeer.com platform for over 1.5 years.
Sanctions
Serbian companies shipped at least $71.1 million in sanctioned dual-use goods to Russia since February 2022, including electronics used in Russian armaments. Kominvex exported at least $27 million worth of Intel components.
Money laundering
The Central Bank of UAE imposed a fine of AED 4,800,000 on an exchange house after findings revealed weak compliance framework regarding risk analysis and due diligence policies to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing.
The Council of Europe's MONEYVAL committee published a follow-up report on July 6, 2026, assessing Romania's technical compliance with FATF recommendations.
Money laundering
The UAE Ministry of Economy imposed AED 2.25 million worth of administrative sanctions on three companies operating in the gold, gemstones and real estate sectors for anti-money laundering violations.
Sweden's Financial Supervisory Authority (FI) issued Ikano Bank AB an administrative fine of 140 million kronor in June 2026 and Norion Bank AB a fine of 90 million kronor in May 2026, both for violations of anti-money laundering regulations.
Bribery & corruption
Former Iranian Roads and Urban Development Minister Abbas Akhundi stated Iran spent between $300-400 billion on circumventing sanctions, leading to formation of 'major corruption' networks. Highlights systemic cost of sanctions evasion infrastructure in Iran.
Sanctions
A judicial settlement agreement of public interest (CJIP) was validated on May 5, 2026 by the Troyes judicial court president, concluded between the prosecutor and Sodexo company. The CJIP for Sodexo was dated March 13, 2026.
Fraud & scams
World Bank updated its listing of debarred firms and individuals on May 5, 2026. As of March 31, 2026, the World Bank Debarment list includes 1,386 firms and individuals barred by World Bank Group from receiving Bank-financed contracts due to fraud, corruption or collusion.
OFAC designated Zaid Abdulnasser (alias 'Tamim, Zid') of Germany and Rawa Alsagheer (alias 'Al-Saghir, Ruwaa') of Brazil, as well as Autistici Inventati (Italy-based), Masar Badil (Palestinian Alternative Revolutionary Path Movement, operating in Brazil, Germany, Canada, Belgium, and Spain), and…
Sanctions
The United States sanctioned Iraqi company South Wealth Resources Company in Baghdad and two executives for helping Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps evade sanctions by smuggling hundreds of millions of dollars worth of weapons.
Sanctions
The UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation imposed a monetary penalty of £1,000,920.
On June 14, 2026, British Royal Marines commandos and National Crime Agency officers boarded and detained the tanker SMYRTOS in the English Channel, marking the first UK-led operation of its kind against Russia's shadow fleet.
The ACPR's Sanctions Commission issued a decision on March 19, 2026, against MoneyGram International SA for violations related to combating money laundering and terrorism financing.
The U.S. Treasury Department announced on July 15, 2026, the freezing of over $130 million in digital assets tied to the Central Bank of Iran.
State Department announced sanctions under EO 14404 targeting five entities and five individuals associated with Cuban regime's revolutionary network.
The U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control issued Iran General License X, permitting production, delivery, and sale of Iranian crude oil, petrochemical products, and petroleum products through August 21, 2026, implementing sanctions relief following the Islamabad Memorandum signed June 17, 2026.
OFAC sanctioned Gasabo Gold Refinery LTD and three other mining entities, plus two individuals (Jean Malic Kalima and Bosco Kayobotsi), for facilitating the M23 rebel group's illicit gold smuggling from eastern DRC.
The Central Bank of the UAE imposed sanctions on six exchange houses for violating Anti-Money Laundering rules, with penalties totaling Dh17.31 million.
Trade outlet Profession CGP, reporting an AMF Enforcement Committee press release, says that in a decision dated 21 July 2026 the regulator fined the financial investment adviser (conseiller en investissements financiers) Financière Fonds Privés €100,000, and its directors Pierre-Michel Deléglise and Thierry de Chambure €70,000 and €40,000 respectively.
OFAC revoked Iran General License X (GL X) and replaced it with General License X1 (GL X1), according to Treasury. GL X1 is a narrow wind-down authorization that expires on July 17, 2026.
The U.S. Department of Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) reached a Settlement Agreement with Rice Lake Weighing Systems, Inc. regarding alleged violations of OFAC sanctions programs. The settlement represents enforcement action by OFAC for non-compliance with U.S.
The UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation issued a sanctions notice on 6 July 2026 regarding the Chemical Weapons regime, with obligations for relevant firms under financial sanctions. The notice relates to designations under the UK's chemical weapons sanctions framework.
The UK Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) fined Gabbitas Robins £11,008 for AML file review failures and fined Macmillans Solicitors LLP £1,852 for AML framework failures. India's Reserve Bank (RBI) fined Pahal Financial Services Private Limited ₹3.1 Lakh for KYC shortcomings.
OFAC re-designated Garantex Europe OU, a cryptocurrency exchange that processed over $100 million in transactions linked to illicit activities including ransomware and darknet markets since 2019. Also designated Grinex, created by Garantex employees to circumvent sanctions.
Sanctions
According to the World Bank's Office of Suspension and Debarment, Beximco Computers Limited was debarred for a minimum of 10 months after evidence of collusive bidding in the $295 million Bangladesh Enhancing Digital Government and Economy Project.
OFAC designated three individuals and six entities for facilitating financial transactions on behalf of ISIS using cryptocurrency.
Bribery & corruption
Fleurette Properties, a Netherlands-based shell company beneficially owned by U.S.-sanctioned Israeli billionaire Dan Gertler, accepted a penal order and paid a €25.8 million ($30 million) fine, settling an eight-year Dutch investigation.
OFAC designated Hizballah-aligned Lebanese officials and members of a Hizballah-associated business network overseen by Alaa Hassan Hamieh. The Lebanese officials designated have used their influence to obstruct Lebanon's peace process and delay the disarmament of Hizballah.
OFAC designated eight individuals and entities supporting both sides of Sudan's civil war, including Target Multiactivities Company Ltd. and Ports Engineering Company Ltd. for procuring explosives and military equipment for the Sudanese Armed Forces.
The Central Bank of the UAE fined an unnamed foreign bank branch AED 20 million ($5.4 million) for significant, repeated failures in its Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations and Sanctions framework.
Money laundering
OCCRP undercover investigation reveals Russian payment brokers operating on Telegram explicitly offering services to circumvent Western sanctions through layered intermediaries across multiple jurisdictions.
OFAC designated Amin Exchange (Ebrahimi and Associates Partnership Company), significant player in Iran's foreign exchange market facilitating hundreds of millions for sanctioned Iranian entities.
OFAC designated 4 entities and 2 individuals involved in illicit conflict minerals trading networks in eastern DRC. Entities: Bugambira Mines Ltd (aka Multiserve Consults Ltd), Gasabo Gold Refinery Ltd, Rwinkwavu Mining Corporation Ltd, Wolfram Mining and Processing Ltd—all based in Kigali, Rwanda.
MONEYVAL reported that Romania has taken steps to enhance its anti-money laundering and terrorist financing measures but still needs to tackle some shortcomings.
Fraud & scams
The UK announced sanctions targeting individuals and entities linked to Cambodia's Prince Group, widely alleged to have operated a network of scam centers built on forced labor and human trafficking.
OFAC launched a new online Reconsideration Portal to streamline the submission of requests for removal from OFAC sanctions lists. The portal guides submitters to provide necessary information upfront rather than through extended questionnaire exchanges.
Money laundering
The European Commission and High Representative Kaja Kallas proposed a new EU sanctions regime targeting migrant smuggling, human trafficking, firearms trafficking, drug trafficking, and money laundering.
Royal Marine commandos and National Crime Agency officers conducted the UK's first-ever seizure of a sanctioned vessel on 14 June 2026 in a six-hour operation, boarding the oil tanker Smyrtos in international waters in the English Channel.
The UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) fined Sabre Global Technologies £1,000,920 on 17 June 2026 for breaching UK sanctions on Russia, representing the largest sanctions breach penalty since 2020.
ESMA fined trade repository REGIS-TR S.A. a total of €1,374,000 for seven infringements of obligations under the European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR) and the Securities Financing Transactions Regulation (SFTR).
Sanctions
A Turkey-based company co-owned by Dutch national Alexander Tattersall shipped over $5 million worth of European metalworking machinery to Russian defense firms Aluminum Metallurg Rus and Stupino Metallurgical Company in 2023-2024, despite EU sanctions.
Sanctions
Russian security personnel with military and private military company backgrounds are being covertly stationed on sanctioned oil tankers as 'watchmen' to monitor foreign captains and prevent cooperation with Western authorities.
Germany's federal prosecutor arrested five men for allegedly exporting goods worth at least €30 million to Russia in breach of EU sanctions, with customers including at least 24 Russian arms manufacturers.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury designated two individuals and nine entities connected to Mexican drug trafficking operations supporting the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG).
OFAC sanctioned Gustave Kubwayo (FDLR commander) and John Imani Nzenze (M23 commander and chief of intelligence) for leading armed groups that have committed serious human rights violations including killings, sexual violence, and forced displacement in eastern DRC.
OFAC sanctioned Iran's military oil sales network generating revenue for the regime's armed forces, including Hong Kong-based front companies (Growth Trading, Damai Technology, Tida, Mehdiyev Trading, Worth Seen Energy), UAE-based Luan Bird Shipping Service, and the IRGC-linked Persian Gulf Strait Authority extortion scheme.
Sanctions
European Union announced sweeping 21st sanctions package targeting Russia's financial infrastructure and wartime supply chains.
Sanctions
The AMF Enforcement Committee on 23 June 2026 imposed fines of €800,000 on Bourse Direct and €50,000 on its director, Ms Catherine Nini, for breaches during the period 1 January 2021 to 30 November 2023.
On 27 August 2026, the National Crime Agency (NCA) entered into a settlement agreement with ENEX Premium Trading Limited, an agricultural trading company, after investigations revealed sanctions evasion linked to Iran.
The UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) announced on 2 September 2026 a settlement of £4,732,830.58 with Citibank, N.A., London Branch for breaches of the UK's Russia and Global Anti-Corruption sanctions regimes.
Royal Marine Commandos from 42 Commando boarded the sanctioned shadow fleet oil tanker Smyrtos on 14 June 2026 in a six-hour mission in the English Channel, 25 miles south of the Isle of Wight.
OFAC designated six targets connected to Cartel del Noreste (CDN), a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. Action targeted Casino Centenario in Nuevo Laredo (two miles from U.S. border) and Diamante Casino in Tampico, which CDN allegedly used for money laundering and as drug stash houses.
Sanctions
European Central Bank imposed €7,551,050 penalty on Crédit Agricole S.A. for failing to conduct required materiality assessment of climate-related and environmental risks by May 31, 2024 deadline. Bank failed requirement for 75 days. Decision relates to ECB order from February 8, 2024.
Fraud & scams
The U.S. Treasury Department announced a new package of sanctions targeting nine individuals and 26 companies associated with Cambodia's Prince Group, accused of engaging in cyber-scams and forced labor.
Sanctions
The Autorité de contrôle prudentiel et de résolution (ACPR) imposed a reprimand and €20 million fine on Société Générale in May 2026 for failures in its role as an insurance intermediary.
Money laundering
Jersey authorities are investigating Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich in connection with suspected money laundering, according to court records showing hundreds of millions of dollars moving through Swiss bank accounts.
Sanctions
Lithuania seized Belarusian fertilizers worth millions of euros and tightened border controls after OCCRP member centers (Siena and Belarusian Investigative Center) exposed a scheme allowing sanctioned companies to export products to the EU.
Turkish citizen sentenced to prison for violating Iran embargo. Case involves sanctions evasion related to Iran through Turkey corridor.
OFAC announced transnational criminal organizations designations including Bo Chen, An Dai linked to Prince Group, and Xiao'er Chen linked to Grand Legend International Asset Management Group.
Fraud & scams
Risto Riihimäki, chief executive of Lappeenranta-based transport company Idän Liikenteenvälitys IL Oy, was convicted of exporting 164 trucks and trailers to Russia in violation of EU sanctions following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.
Sanctions
The European Union's 21st sanctions package includes a deferred transaction ban on Georgia's Kulevi oil refinery, controlled by businesswoman Maka Asatiani, for allegedly processing Russian crude, according to OCCRP.
OFAC removed sanctions on 76 outdated targets from its Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (SDN) List as part of Treasury's ongoing sanctions modernization initiative.
OFAC sanctioned nine individuals and 26 entities linked to Prince Group TCO, including TCO leadership (Hu Xiaowei, described as 'second-in-command'), investors in scam compounds, and front companies across British Virgin Islands, Hong Kong, Singapore, UK, Thailand, and Cambodia.
The U.S. Treasury Department designated three individuals and six entities across Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa for facilitating financial transactions on behalf of ISIS.
Sanctions
According to an OCCRP investigation, a 2022 Pentagon fuel supply contract for the U.S. consulate in Iraqi Kurdistan involved subcontractor Tavrons Ltd, allegedly connected to U.S.-sanctioned Lebanese brothers Raymond and Teddy Zina Rahme. U.S.
The member states of the Terrorist Financing Targeting Center (TFTC) — co-chaired by the United States and Saudi Arabia, with representatives from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE — announced joint designations targeting five entities and 16 individuals linked to Hezbollah's financial infrastructure.
EU unveiled 21st sanctions package on June 9, 2026, targeting energy, financial services, cryptocurrencies, trade, and fisheries. Asset freezes on close to 90 banks and transaction bans on over 30 banks in Russia and third countries.
OFAC designated Fidel Ernesto Castro Calis, grandson of Raúl Castro, and five Cuban state-linked entities: Banco Exterior de Cuba, Comercial Cupet S.A., Nicarotec, Cexni and Abapet, which operate in banking, oil trade, mining and nickel trade.
The Central Bank UAE imposed a $5.4 million (AED 20 million) fine on the UAE branch of a foreign bank for significant, repeated failures in its Anti-money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations and Sanctions framework.
According to the UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), Citibank N.A.'s London branch has been fined GBP 4,732,830.58 for processing 970 payments totalling GBP 19.7 million in breach of UK sanctions on Russia.
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission prohibited Ms Mok Cheuk Ling, a former licensed representative of Sun Hung Kai Investment Services Limited, from re-entering the industry for 42 months.
OFAC sanctioned a network of individuals, entities, and vessels across multiple jurisdictions for allegedly shipping Iranian-origin liquid petroleum gas (LPG) 'intentionally disguised as Omani LPG' to end users in South and East Asia.
OFAC designated 11 individuals and two entities connected to Mexico's Sinaloa Cartel for their roles in laundering drug proceeds, adding six Ethereum addresses to the SDN list.
OFAC announced a settlement agreement with an individual who provided management consulting and advisory services to one of Iran's leading software solutions companies and received Iranian-origin dividends to their U.S. account.
Fraud & scams
UK sanctioned entities linked to Cambodia's Prince Group for operating vast online fraud network. #8 Park (operated by Legend Innovation Co.) allegedly holds up to 20,000 trafficked workers forced into cryptocurrency fraud schemes. Xinbi, a Chinese-language Telegram marketplace, processed over $19.
Money laundering
The AMF published a synthesis of 46 inspections on combating money laundering and terrorist financing conducted between 1 January 2022 and 31 December 2025 that resulted in follow-up action.
US announced sanctions targeting Iranian networks allegedly smuggling hundreds of millions of dollars of liquified petroleum gas to South and East Asia using UAE and China front companies and shadow fleet vessels.
OFAC designated Unión Cuba-Petróleo (CUPET), Cuba's state-owned oil and gas company, under Cuba Executive Order 14404.
Sanctions
The U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control designated VTB Bank, a major Russian financial institution, under Executive Order 13902 for facilitating Iranian sanctions evasion.
FinCEN and federal regulators proposed a Stablecoin Customer ID Rule under the GENIUS Act (Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act).
FATF added Iraq and Bosnia and Herzegovina to its global 'Gray List' on June 19, 2026, at the end of its latest triannual summit in Strasbourg, France. During the summit, Mali, Tanzania and Croatia exited the gray list after making significant progress against identified AML/CFT shortcomings.
MONEYVAL published a report assessing the effectiveness of Armenia's measures against money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing.
OFAC designated 35 entities and individuals facilitating Iran's shadow banking network processing tens of billions of dollars in sanctions evasion and terrorism financing.
Sanctions
The Paris Tribunal Correctionnel sanctioned a market manipulation case reported to the Financial Prosecutor by the AMF, with the court also approving four plea bargains.
OFAC designated over 30 individuals and entities tied to Iranian brothers Mansour, Nasser, and Fazlolah Zarringhalam who collectively laundered billions of dollars through Iran's shadow banking system via exchange houses and front companies in Hong Kong and UAE.
OFAC designated 3 individuals and 7 entities for facilitating financial transactions on behalf of ISIS.
$1.7 billion passed through the Binance cryptocurrency exchange to Iran, discovered through an internal investigation initiated after Israeli law enforcement contacted them regarding suspected terror financing via crypto wallets.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio designated Cuba's state-owned oil and gas company Unión Cuba-Petróleo (CUPET) pursuant to Executive Order 14404 for operating in the energy sector of the Cuban economy.
Sanctions
The European Parliament backed a non-binding call to ban alumina exports to Russia, following an OCCRP investigation revealing that an Irish refinery's supply chain links to Russian arms manufacturers.
At G7 summit, UK designated 11 individuals and 32 entities under Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, plus specified 27 ships including 20 oil tankers in Russia's shadow fleet.
Treasury sanctioned criminal operators and money launderers for the notorious Sinaloa Cartel, targeting cash-to-crypto laundering networks tied to fentanyl trafficking.
The UK National Crime Agency and National Economic Crime Centre issued a nationwide Flash Alert (published September 1, 2026, formally announced August 31, 2026) detailing the A7 sanctions evasion network, which authorities allege was established by Russian-Moldovan businessman Ilan Shor and is…
On June 2, 2026, OFAC designated multiple Iranian digital asset exchanges—Nobitex, Wallex, Bitpin, and Ramzinex—for allegedly providing 'significant support' to the Iranian regime, including by acting as a 'vehicle for sanctions evasion.'
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced coordinated sanctions targeting networks that support Kata'ib Hizballah and Lebanese Hizballah.
Sanctions
Russian Ambassador Alexey Borodavkin stated that despite international sanctions pressure, Kazakhstan-Russia trade is projected to exceed $30 billion in 2026.
Sanctions
The AMF Sanctions Commission sanctioned, in its decision of July 20, 2026, portfolio management company Uzès Gestion and its executives Jean-Marie Godet and Christian Maugey with financial penalties of €350,000, €30,000 and €40,000 respectively, each accompanied by a warning, for breaches of professional obligations.
In January 2026, HSBC Bank plc signed a judicial public interest agreement (CJIP) with the Parquet National Financier, agreeing to pay €267.5 million in exchange for dropping prosecution in the CumCum dividend tax fraud case revealed in 2018.
Money laundering
Spain's anti-money laundering watchdog SEPBLAC imposed fine exceeding €40 million (US$47 million) on Banco Santander SA following investigation into internal anti-money laundering protocols of digital subsidiary Openbank.
OFAC updated its Specially Designated Nationals list with 10 individuals and 25 entities linked primarily to Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani's shipping operations, as well as 20 vessels flagged under various nations.
Money laundering
Swiss regulator FINMA's license revocation of MBaer Merchant Bank became legally binding in late February 2026 after bank withdrew appeal.
In August 2026, the U.S. Department of State announced actions to dismantle a web of currency exchange houses and shell companies that helped Iran secretly move hundreds of millions of dollars through the international financial system.
Hong Kong's Market Misconduct Tribunal has determined that Sir Dickson Poon, founder of Dickson Concepts, and his investment vehicle Equity Advantage Limited engaged in insider dealing. According to the tribunal's findings, Poon allegedly learned of a US$147.
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury's OFAC designated Golden Global Yatirim Bankasi Anonim Sirketi (Golden Global Bank), a Turkey-based financial institution, and two subsidiaries under E.O. 13902.
The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) imposed a financial sanction of AED 1,820,000 on a branch of a foreign bank licensed to operate in the UAE on 6 July 2026.
On June 23, 2026, a Notice of Uncontested Sanctions Proceedings was issued in Sanctions Case No. 809 involving Beximco Computers Limited, following an earlier Notice of Sanctions Proceedings issued on March 12, 2026 by the World Bank's Chief Suspension and Debarment Officer.
The United States Treasury Department, through OFAC, issued sanctions on July 29, 2026, targeting 10 entities and 8 additional oil tankers linked to Iran's efforts to monetize the Strait of Hormuz and evade sanctions.
Sanctions
The European Union and Britain sanctioned a specialized unit of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) for a decade-long campaign of cyber-espionage and attempted sabotage targeting critical infrastructure, according to OCCRP.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions targeting over 50 individuals, entities, and vessels connected to Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani's illicit shipping network.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control took action against Dubai-based Iranian businessman Ali Ansari, who allegedly oversees a sprawling global network of assets benefitting Iran's leader Mojtaba Khamenei and other regime elites, according to Treasury.
The U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions against Iran's largest cryptocurrency exchange Nobitex and three other exchanges—Wallex, Bitpin, and Ramzinex—under the 'Economic Wrath' campaign.
OFAC announced counter-terrorism and Iran-related designations and counter-narcotics designations removals. The action included designation updates targeting terrorism financing and Iran-related illicit activities.
A 15-week trial is scheduled to commence on 5 October 2026 at Southwark Crown Court for former Petrofac senior executives Marwan Chedid and George Salibi, charged with bribery by the Serious Fraud Office. The defendants were charged in February 2024 with a total of five counts of bribery.
OFAC sanctioned a Russia-China-Kyrgyzstan payment scheme facilitating cross-border payments for sensitive goods through regional clearing platforms (RCPs).
OFAC designated network generating revenue for Hezbollah through hawala exploiting Lebanon's cash-based economy. Proceeds from Iranian oil sales routed through exchange shops (sarrafs) in Dubai and transferred to Hezbollah in Lebanon using hawala.
OFAC designated six entities and individuals in China, India, Russia, and Iran for supporting Iran's Mahan Air airline and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Sanctions
The U.S. Department of Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated 36 targets supporting Iran's aviation sector under Operation Economic Outcast.
Fraud & scams
According to Treasury, Xinbi Guarantee is a Chinese-language illicit online marketplace that allegedly processed over $24 billion in digital and fiat currency since 2022, serving scam center operators in Southeast Asia and other transnational criminal syndicates.
OFAC designated an individual and over 40 entities supporting Iran's civil aviation sector under the Iran sanctions program and secondary sanctions. The individual designated is Ibrahim Ali Mohamed Mohamed Mahran (also known as Ibrahim Mahran), a UAE resident.
Sanctions
On 21 July 2026, the AMF's Sanctions Commission fined Financière Fonds Privés €100,000, and its two managers Pierre-Michel Deléglise and Thierry de Chambure €70,000 and €40,000 respectively.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore issued a 6-year prohibition order against Lai Mei Lin, a former representative and unit manager of Manulife Financial Advisers, for alleged forgery offenses and unauthorized access to computer material.
OFAC designated two Mexican nationals and nine entities for facilitating a fuel theft scheme involving cross-border smuggling, falsified customs documents, and shell companies linked to the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG).
OFAC designated the Chone Killers, an Ecuadorian transnational terrorist group, under counter-terrorism authorities. The group was added to the Specially Designated Nationals list.
Sanctions
The AMF Sanctions Committee issued a decision on 21 July 2026 against Financière Fonds Privés and individuals Pierre-Michel Deléglise and Thierry de Chambure for breaches of professional and information obligations.
The UK designated 19 Russian individuals, entities and ships under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, with six banks becoming subject to asset freezes and payment-processing restrictions. Six oil tankers were targeted for their reported role in avoiding Western restrictions.
Money laundering
A federal judge in New York sentenced Reza Zarrab to time served after he pleaded guilty in 2017 to helping Iran evade U.S. sanctions through money laundering.
Sanctions
The European Union Council imposed restrictive measures on 13 July 2026 against nine Russian individuals and four entities responsible for cyberattacks posing external threats to EU member states, according to the Council press release.
Following the expiration of Executive Order 13936's national emergency declaration on July 14, 2026, OFAC restructured its Hong Kong sanctions framework. OFAC removed nine persons designated solely under E.O.
EU imposed first-ever sanctions related to threats to freedom of navigation against Iranian individuals and entities, announced by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on June 8, 2026. Measures taken in response to disruptions of vessel transit in Strait of Hormuz and regional waterways.
On 9 July 2026, the sanctions commission of the French Anti-Corruption Agency issued decision no. 25-01, sanctioning for the first time directly a company and its director without proceeding through the injunction phase. 'Société V.' was fined 350,000 euros and its president M. S.
OFAC sanctioned nine individuals and entities on June 10, 2026 for supporting weapons procurement for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL).
Sanctions
According to OCCRP, Belgium's Council of State ruled that the Administrator General of the Treasury lacked legal authority to reject a request by Russia's BCS Bank to unfreeze its assets held at Euroclear.
OFAC issued Iran-related designations under Executive Order 13902, adding four individuals — Solmaz Bani (Dubai, linked by OFAC to Babak Morteza Zanjani), Bahareh Morteza Zanjani (Dubai), Sukhrob Oimakhmadov (Dushanbe, Tajikistan) and Mehdi Rezazadeh (Tehran) — to the Specially Designated Nationals list.
According to Treasury, OFAC designated Persian Gulf Marine Insurance Company and HormuzSafe Marine Services Authority, along with eight shipping companies and eight vessels, for allegedly operating an IRGC-backed extortion network forcing commercial vessels to purchase mandatory maritime insurance to transit the Strait of Hormuz.
On August 24, 2026, the United States took sweeping action against multiple entities, individuals, and vessels enabling Iran's destabilizing activities, including attacks against U.S.
OFAC designated two individuals and one entity for enabling ransomware attacks: First VPN Service (1VPNS), its administrator Dmytro Rashevskyi (a Ukrainian national using aliases including Roman Chabanenko and Maksim Sorin), and Yegeniy Vladimirovich Silayev, who allegedly sells "cryptors"—tools used to disguise ransomware as safe programs.
Sanctions
As part of implementation of the EU's 21st Russia sanctions package (adopted 23 July 2026), transaction bans on crypto-asset service providers took effect on 25 August 2026. The prohibition on Russian nationals sitting on boards was extended to any crypto-asset services business.
FINTRAC imposed a $212,025 administrative penalty on Atlantic Lottery on May 29, 2026, after finding compliance violations including failure to submit a suspicious transaction report, failure to keep written compliance policies up to date, and failure to assess and document financial crime risks, according to FINTRAC.
Sanctions
On 29 June 2026, HM Revenue & Customs announced that Petrofac Facilities Management Limited paid a compound settlement of £569,157.07 for offences under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.
Money laundering
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) proposed a rule on August 28, 2026, to revoke Banque Misr UAE's correspondent banking access to U.S. financial institutions.
OFAC designated Reza Mohammad Taeedi, a Dubai-based Iranian national (DOB: August 24, 1975), and Kameng Trading Limited, a Hong Kong-based company, as part of 'Operation Economic Outcast' targeting Iran's Access to UAE Banks. Taeedi is noted as linked to Bank Melli Iran.
OFAC designated two Brazilian nationals, three Brazilian companies, and one Portuguese company for their links to Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC), described as the largest transnational criminal organization in the Western Hemisphere.
The Office of Foreign Assets Control announced designations targeting a transnational criminal network involved in cocaine trafficking from Ecuador linked to violent gangs and Mexican cartels.
US Treasury OFAC sanctioned six individuals and two companies on March 12, 2026 for allegedly helping North Korea convert approximately $800 million into cryptocurrency in 2024 to launder funds for weapons programs. A key facilitator converted approximately $2.
Sanctions
The US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated BitBank, a digital assets exchange controlled by sanctioned Iranian financier Babak Zanjani, along with its developer Pishtaz Simorgh Electronic Trade Company and three associates (Hossein Ali Zaker Hossein, Mohammad Mahdi Zaker Hossein, and Seyed Adel Heidari).
OFAC announced the removal of Syria's designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism and revoked the designation of al-Nusrah Front as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization, removing HTS from the Specially Designated Nationals List.
The European Court of Justice clarified evidentiary standards for demonstrating control of companies by persons subject to EU restrictive measures. In the Inter Rao Lietuva case, the court held that the existence of control must be supported by 'objective and sufficiently solid evidence.'
The Office of Foreign Assets Control designated five Cuban state-owned enterprises and six individuals to its Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List in connection with activities supporting Cuba's military capabilities and arms procurement.
Sanctions
The Office of Foreign Assets Control imposed sanctions on 15 individuals and entities and identified 10 Ecuador-based fishing vessels as blocked property in connection with a cocaine trafficking network affiliated with violent Ecuadorian criminal organizations Los Choneros and Los Lobos.
Fraud & scams
The US Treasury's OFAC designated four individuals and nine entities allegedly tied to Babak Zanjani's network.
Sanctions
The U.S. Treasury Department announced Operation Economic Outcast on August 24, 2026, an unprecedented whole-of-government economic campaign against the Islamic Republic of Iran and its enablers.
FinCEN issued an alert to assist financial institutions in identifying and reporting on procurement networks that support Iran's commercial aviation industry. The alert alerts financial institutions to suspicious activity connected to Iran's illicit procurement networks used to circumvent U.S.
OFAC designated over 50 Mexican individuals and entities connected to the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG), marking its largest action ever against this organization. The action targeted CJNG's leadership structure, including new leader Juan Carlos Gonzalez (a.k.a.
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) updated the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List on August 18, 2026, with International Criminal Court-related designations and a Venezuela-related designation.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) issued a 4-year prohibition order against Low Jia Mei, Camie, a former relationship manager at Standard Chartered Bank (Singapore) Limited.
The US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control announced it designated a senior UK-based Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood official, Mahmoud al-Abyari, together with three other individuals and three entities that it alleges provided material support to Hamas.
The U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control designated three Turkey-based entities to the Specially Designated Nationals List on 4 September 2026: Golden Global Yatirim Bankasi Anonim Sirketi, Golden Global Portfoy Yonetimi Anonim Sirketi, and Golden Global Varlik Kiralama…
OFAC removed 84 individuals and entities from the Specially Designated Nationals List as part of a sanctions modernization initiative, according to the Treasury Department.
The UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation published a sanctions notice on July 13, 2026, adding 10 new designations under the Russia sanctions regime. On July 7, 2026, OFSI made 2 amendments and 1 revocation (de-listing) under the Russia sanctions regime.
The U.S. Department of Treasury designated ten individuals involved in a financial evasion network that uses couriers traveling on commercial airline flights between Lebanon, Turkey, the UAE, and Iran to move hundreds of millions of dollars between the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force…