Syrian Sanctions

SECO updates Syrian sanctions

Earlier today, Swiss authorities updated 54 individuals listed under the Syrian sanctions program and delisted the following persons:

SSID: 200-12029 Name: Fahid Al-Jassim

Title: Lieutenant General Good quality a.k.a.: Fahd

Justification: Chief of Staff. Military official involved in the violence in Homs. Modifications: Amended on 6 Nov 2013, 19 Jan 2016, de-listed on 13 Aug 2019

SSID: 200-12084 Name: Ahmed Yousef Jarad

Title: Brigadier General Good quality a.k.a.: a) Ahmad b) Youssef c) Jarrad Justification: Ordered troops to shoot at protestors in Deraa, including the use of machine guns and anti-aircraft guns. Other information: Commander of 132nd Brigade. Modifications: Amended on 6 Nov 2013, 19 Jan 2016, de-listed on 13 Aug 2019

SSID: 200-12129 Name: Mohsin Makhlouf

Title: Brigadier General

Justification: Gave orders to troops to shoot at protestors in Al-Herak. Modifications: Amended on 6 Nov 2013, 19 Jan 2016, de-listed on 13 Aug 2019

SSID: 200-12142 Name: Suheil Salman Hassan

Title: Major General Good quality a.k.a.: Suhail

Justification: Gave orders to troops to shoot at the protesters in Deraa Governorate. Other information: Commander of 5th Division. Modifications: Amended on 6 Nov 2013, 19 Jan 2016, de-listed on 13 Aug 2019

SSID: 200-22423 Name: Omran Ahed Al Zu’bi

DOB: 27 Sep 1959 POB: Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic Good quality a.k.a.: Al Zoubi (Al Zo’bi, Al Zou’bi)

Justification: Former Minister of Information in power after May 2011. As a former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime’s violent repression against the civilian population. Modifications: Amended on 6 Nov 2013, 19 Jan 2016, 16 Jun 2017, de- listed on 13 Aug 2019

SSID: 200-22447 Name: Mohammad Turki Al Sayed

Justification: Former Minister of Industry. As a former Government Minister shares responsibility for the regime’s violent repression against the civilian population.

Modifications: Amended on 6 Nov 2013, 23 Jun 2014, 19 Jan 2016, de-listed on 13 Aug 2019

SSID: 200-30629 Name: Wael Abdulkarim

DOB: 30 Sep 1973 POB: Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic Good quality a.k.a.: Al Karim Address: Al Karim for Trade and Industry, P.O.Box 111, Damascus, 5797, Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria in the oil, chemicals and manufacturing industries. Specifically, he represents Abdulkarim Group, a.k.a Al Karim Group/Alkarim for Trade and Industry/Al Karim Trading and Industry/Al Karim for Trade and Industry. Abdulkarim Group is a leading manufacturer of lubricants, greases and industrial chemicals in Syria. Relation: Represents Abdulkarim Group (SSID 200-29931) Other information: POB: Damascus, Syria (of Palestinian origin) Modifications: Listed on 18 Mar 2015, amended on 3 Jun 2015, 19 Jan 2016, 10 Jun 2016, 11 Oct 2016, de-listed on 13 Aug 2019

SSID: 200-36669 Name: Isam Zahr Al-Din

Title: Brigadier General DOB: 1961 POB: Tarba, As-Suwayda province, Syrian Arab Republic Good quality a.k.a.: a) Issam (Essam) b) Zuhair (Zaher) c) Eldin (al-Deen) d) Isam Zohruddin e) Issam Zahruddin f) Issam Zahreddine g) Essam Zahruddin h) Nafed Assadllah

Justification: Holds the rank of Brigadier General, a senior officer in the Republican Guard, in post after May 2011. As a senior military officer he is responsible for the violent repression against the civilian population, including during the siege of Baba Amr in February 2012. Modifications: Listed on 3 Aug 2017, amended on 3 Oct 2017, de-listed on 13 Aug 2019

and entities:

SSID: 200-12600 Name: Drex Technologies Holding S.A.

Address: 17, rue Beaumont, Luxembourg, L-1219 (formerly established at this address) Justification: The beneficial owner of Drex Technologies Holding S.A. is Rami Makhlouf, already subject to sanctions for providing financial support to the Syrian regime. Relation: Beneficial owner is Rami Makhlouf (SSID 200-11672) Other information: Registered in Luxembourg under number B77616. Modifications: Amended on 19 Jan 2016, de-listed on 13 Aug 2019

SSID: 200-29931 Name: Abdulkarim Group

Good quality a.k.a.: a) Al Karim for Trade and Industry b) Al Karim Group Address: Damascus, 5797

Justification: Abdulkarim Group is an internationally recognised Syrian conglomerate that is associated with Wael Abdulkarim, who is listed as a leading businessperson operating in Syria. Relation: Associated with Wael Abdulkarim (SSID 200-30629) Modifications: Listed on 17 Dec 2014, amended on 20 Jul 2017, de-listed on 13 Aug 2019

SSID: 200-30737 Name: DK Group

Good quality a.k.a.: a) DK Group Sarl b) DK Middle East & Africa Regional Office Address: a) DK Middle East & Africa Regional Office, Peres Lazaristes Center, No. 3, 5th Floor, Emir Bachir Street, Beirut Central District, Bachoura Sector, Beirut, Lebanon b) Azarieh Building – Block 03, 5th Floor, Beirut, Lebanon c) Azarieh Street – Solidere – Downtown, P.O.Box 11-503, Beirut, Lebanon

Justification: a) DK Group supplies new banknotes to the Central Bank of Syria. b) DK Group therefore provides support to the regime. Due to this supply relationship, it is also associated with a designated entity, the Central Bank of Syria. Relation: Supplier Central Bank of Syria (SSID 200-12534, supplies new banknotes to the Central Bank of Syria) Modifications: Listed on 18 Mar 2015, amended on 19 Jan 2016, de-listed on 13 Aug 2019

Here is the FINMA Notice:

Updated sanction message

The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research WBF has published an amendment to Annex 7 of the Ordinance of 8 June 2012 on Measures against Syria (SR 946.231.172.7).

On 12 August 2019, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research WBF amended the list of persons, companies and organizations sanctioned in this context. The change is directly applicable in Switzerland. The WBF has therefore adjusted the Swiss sanctions database SESAM (SECO Sanctions Management), which is relevant for Switzerland, and published the adaptation on its website . The change will take effect on August 13, 2019 at 6:00 pm.

 

Financial Intermediaries are requested to immediately block the relevant assets and to report such business relationships to SECO in accordance with the provisions of the Regulation. Notification to SECO does not release a financial intermediary from reimbursing reports to the Money Laundering Reporting Office without delay if the requirements are fulfilled, in accordance with Art. 9 of the Money Laundering Law.

Links:

FINMA Notice

Data files of updates – PDF, XML

July 18, 2019: SECO updates Syria sanctions

Updated sanction message

The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research WBF has published an amendment to Annex 7 of the Ordinance of 8 June 2012 on Measures against Syria (SR 946.231.172.7).

On 15 July 2019, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research WBF amended the list of persons, companies and organizations sanctioned in this context. The change is directly applicable in Switzerland. On 17 July 2019, the WBF adapted the sanction database SESAM (SECO Sanctions Management), which is relevant for Switzerland, and published the adaptation on its website . The change will take effect on 17 July 2019 at 18.00.

Financial Intermediaries are requested to immediately block the relevant assets and to report such business relationships to SECO in accordance with the provisions of the Regulation. Notification to SECO does not release a financial intermediary from reimbursing reports to the Money Laundering Reporting Office without delay if the requirements are fulfilled, in accordance with Art. 9 of the Money Laundering Act.

Last Thursday, Swiss officials added the following persons:

SSID: 200-40010 Name: Anas Talas

DOB: 25 Mar 1971 Good quality a.k.a.: Talous (Tals, Tuls, Tlass) Nationality: Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with interests and activities in multiple sectors of Syria’s economy. Through his business activities and investments, Anas Talas also benefits from and/or supports the Syrian regime. In 2018 the Talas Group, chaired by Anas Talas, entered into a SYP 23 billion joint venture with Damascus Cham Holding for the construction of Marota City, a regime-backed luxury residential and commercial development. Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: Chairman of the Talas Group Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40019 Name: Nazir Ahmad JamalEddine

DOB: 1962 Good quality a.k.a.: Mohammed Nationality: Syrian Arab Republic Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria with significant investments in the construction industry, including a controlling 90 % stake in Apex Development and Projects LLC, which has entered into a USD 34,8 million joint venture for the construction of Marota City, a regime-backed luxury residential and commercial development. Through his participation in the Marota City development, Nazir Ahmad JamalEddine benefits from and/or supports the Syrian regime. Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: Cofounder and majority shareholder of Apex Development and Projects LLC and founder of A’ayan Company for Projects and Equipment Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40028 Name: Mazin Al-Tarazi

DOB: Sep 1962 Good quality a.k.a.: Mazen Nationality: Syrian Arab Republic Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with significant investments in the construction and aviation sectors. Through his investments and activities, Mazin Al-Tarazi benefits from and/or supports the Syrian regime. In particular, Al-Tarazi has concluded a deal with Damascus Cham Holdings for a USD 320 million investment in the construction of Marota City, a regime-backed luxury residential and commercial development; he has also been granted a licence for a private airline in Syria. Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: Businessperson Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40037 Name: Samer Foz

DOB: May 1973 POB: Latakia, Syrian Arab Republic Good quality a.k.a.: a) Samir b) Zuhair c) Fawz Nationality: a) Syrian Arab Republic b) Turkey

Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with interests and activities in multiple sectors of Syria’s economy, including a regime-backed joint venture involved in the development of Marota City, a luxury residential and commercial development. Samer Foz provides financial and other support to the regime, including funding the Military Security Shield Forces in Syria and brokering grain deals. He also benefits financially from access to commercial opportunities through the wheat trade and reconstruction projects as a result of his links to the regime. Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: CEO of Aman Group c) Executive President of Aman Group. Subsidiaries: Foz for Trading, Al-Mohaimen for Transportation & Contracting. Aman Group is the private sector partner in Joint Venture Aman Damascus JSC with Damascus Cham Holding, in which Foz is an individual shareholder. Emmar Industries is a joint venture between Aman Group and the Hamisho Group, in which Foz has the majority stake and is the Chairman. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40051 Name: Khaldoun Al-Zoubi

DOB: 1979 Good quality a.k.a.: a) Khaldoon b) al-Zu’bi (Zubi) Nationality: Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with interests and activities in multiple sectors of Syria’s economy; including his roles as Vice President of Aman Holding and majority shareholder of Fly Aman airline. In this capacity, he is linked to Samer Foz. Aman Holding is represented on the board of, and holds a majority stake in, ‘Aman Damascus’, a joint venture in the construction of Marota City, a regime-backed luxury residential and commercial development. Al-Zoubi benefits from and/or supports the regime through his position as Vice President of Aman Holding. Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: Vice-president of Aman Holding (a.k.a. Aman Group) Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40061 Name: Hussam Al-Qatirji

DOB: 1982 POB: Raqqa, Syrian Arab Republic Good quality a.k.a.: a) Hossam b) Ahmed c) Mohammed (Muhammad) d) al-Katerji Nationality: Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, who is also a Member of Parliament for Aleppo. Al-Qatirji supports and benefits from the regime through enabling, and profiting from, trade deals with the regime in relation to oil and wheat. Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: CEO of Katerji Group (a.k.a. al-Qatirji Company/Qatirji Company/Khatirji Group/Katerji International Group) Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40074 Name: Bashar Mohammad Assi

DOB: 1977 Nationality: Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with interests and activities in multiple sectors of Syria’s economy, including his roles as founding partner of Fly Aman airline and Chairman of the Board of Directors of ‘Aman Damascus’; a joint venture involved in the development of Marota City, a regime-backed luxury residential and commercial development. Assi benefits from and/or supports the regime through his position as Chairman of the Board of Directors of ‘Aman Damascus’. Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: Chairman of the Board of Directors of ‘Aman Damascus’. Founding partner of Fly Aman Limited Liability airline. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40082 Name: Khaled al-Zubaidi

Good quality a.k.a.: a) Khalid b) Mohammed c) Bassam d) Zubaidi (Zubedi, al-Zubedi) Nationality: Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with significant investments in the construction industry, including a 50 % stake in Zubaidi and Qalei LLC, which is constructing the luxury tourist city Grand Town and to which the regime has granted a 45-year agreement in return for 19-21 % of its revenue. In this capacity he is linked to Nader Qalei. Khaled al- Zubaidi benefits from and/or supports the regime through his business activities, in particular through this stake in the Grand Town development. Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: Co-owner of Zubaidi and Qalei LLC, Director of Agar Investment Company, General Manager of Al Zubaidi company and Al Zubaidi & Al Taweet Contracting Company, Director and Owner of Zubaidi Development Company, and co-owner of Enjaz Investment Company. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40093 Name: Hayan Mohammad Nazem Qaddour

DOB: 1970 Good quality a.k.a.: a) Hayyan b) bin Mohammed (Mohammed) c) Kaddour Nationality: a) Syrian Arab Republic b) Switzerland Identification document: Passport No. X4662433, Switzerland, Date of issue: 20 Sep 2010, Expiry date: 19 Sep 2020 Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, who holds a 67 % stake in Exceed Development and Investment, which has entered into a USD 17,7 million joint venture for the construction of Marota City, a regime-backed luxury residential and commercial development. Through his participation in the Marota City development, Hayan Mohammad Nazem Qaddour benefits from and/or supports the Syrian regime. Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: Primary Shareholder of Exceed Development and Investment Company c) NOT SUBJECT TO TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS ACCORDING TO ARTICLE 17(1) Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40104 Name: Maen Rizk Allah Haykal

Good quality a.k.a.: a) Heikal b) Heikal Bin Rizkallah Nationality: Syrian Arab Republic Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, who holds a 33 % stake in Exceed Development and Investment, which has entered into a USD 17,7 million joint venture for the construction of Marota City, a regime-backed luxury residential and commercial development. Through the participation in the Marota City development, Maen Rizk Allah Haykal benefits from and/or supports the Syrian regime. Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: Secondary Shareholder of Exceed Development and Investment Company Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40113 Name: Nader Qalei

DOB: 9 Jul 1965 POB: Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic Good quality a.k.a.: Kalai (Kalei) Address: Young Avenue, Halifax, Canada Nationality: Syrian Arab Republic Identification document: a) Passport No. N 010170320, Syrian Arab Republic, Date of issue: 24 May 2015, Expiry date: 23 May 2021 (Issue number: 002-15-L062672) b) ID card No. 010- 40036453, Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, with significant investments in the construction industry, including a 50 % stake in Zubaidi and Qalei LLC, which is constructing the luxury tourist city Grand Town and to which the regime has granted a 45-year agreement in return for 19-21 % of its revenue. In this capacity, he is linked to Khaled al-Zubaidi. Nader Qalei benefits from and/or supports the regime through his business activities, in particular through this stake in the Grand Town development. Relation: Associated with Khaled al- Zubaidi (SSID 200-40082) Other information: a) Gender: male b) Position: Majority shareholder of Castle Investment Holding, Co-owner of Zubaidi and Qalei LLC, Chairman of Kalai Industries Management Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40320 Name: al-Rahmoun Mohammad Khaled

Sex: M Title: Major General DOB: 1957 POB: Idleb

Justification: Minister of Interior. Appointed in Nov 2018. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40326 Name: Martini Mohammad Rami Radwan

Sex: M DOB: 1970 POB: Aleppo

Justification: Minister of Tourism. Appointed in Nov 2018. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40333 Name: al-Azab Imad Muwaffaq

Sex: M DOB: 1970 POB: Damascus Countryside

Justification: Minister of Education. Appointed in Nov 2018. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40340 Name: Ibrahim Bassam Bashir

Sex: M DOB: 1960 POB: Hama

Justification: Minister of Higher Education. Appointed in Nov 2018. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40346 Name: Abdullatif Suhail Mohammad

Sex: M DOB: 1961 POB: Lattakia

Justification: Minister of Public Works and Housing. Appointed in Nov 2018. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40353 Name: al-Khatib Iyad Mohammad

Sex: M DOB: 1974 POB: Damascus

Justification: Minister of Communications and Technology. Appointed in Nov 2018. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40359 Name: Zein-al-Abidin Jazba Mohammad Maen

Sex: M DOB: 1962 POB: Aleppo

Justification: Minister of Industry. Appointed in Nov 2018. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

and entities:

SSID: 200-40130 Name: Rawafed Damascus Private Joint Stock Company

Good quality a.k.a.: Rawafid Damascus Private Joint Stock Company (Rawafed (Tributary) Damascus Private Joint Stock Company) Address: Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic Justification: Rawafed Damascus Private Joint Stock Company is a USD 48,3 million joint venture between Damascus Cham Holdings, Ramak Development and Humanitarian Projects, Al-Ammar LLC, Timeet Trading LLC (also referred to as Ultimate Trading Co. Ltd.), and Wings Private JSC. Rawafed supports and/or benefits from the Syrian regime, including through its participation in the regime-backed luxury development Marota City. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40136 Name: Aman Damascus Joint Stock Company

Good quality a.k.a.: Aman Damascus JSC Address: Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic Justification: Aman Damascus Joint Stock Company is a USD 18,9 million joint venture between Damascus Cham Holdings and Aman Group. Through its participation in the regime-backed luxury development Marota City, Aman Damascus supports and/or benefits from the Syrian regime. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40142 Name: Bunyan Damascus Private Joint Stock Company

Good quality a.k.a.: Bunyan Damascus Private JSC Address: Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: Bunyan Damascus Private Joint Stock Company is a USD 34,8 million joint venture between Damascus Cham Holdings and Apex Development and Projects LLC and Tamayoz LLC. Through its participation in the regime-backed luxury development Marota City, Bunyan Damascus Private Joint Stock Company supports and/or benefits from the Syrian regime. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40148 Name: Mirza

Address: Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: Mirza is a USD 52,7 million joint venture between Damascus Cham Holding and Talas Group. Through its participation in the regime-backed luxury development Marota City, Mirza supports and/or benefits from the Syrian regime. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-40153 Name: Developers Private Joint Stock Company

Good quality a.k.a.: Developers Private JSC Address: Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic Justification: Developers Private Joint Stock Company is a USD 17,7 million joint venture between Damascus Cham Holdings and Exceed Development and Investment. Through its participation in the regime-backed luxury development Marota City, Developers Private Joint Stock Company supports and/or benefits from the Syrian regime. Modifications: Listed on 17 Jul 2019

to its Syria sanctions program.

In addition, the following individual listings:

SSID: 200-11641 Name: Mohammad Ibrahim Al-Sha’ar

Sex: M DOB: 1956 POB: Aleppo, Syrian Arab Republic Good quality a.k.a.: a) Mohamed (Muhammad, Mohammed) b) Al-Chaar (Al-Shaar)

Justification: Former Minister of the Interior in power after May 2011Interior. As a former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime’s violent repression ofagainst the Syrian peoplecivilian population. Modifications: Amended on 6 Nov 2013, 19 Jan 2016, 11 Oct 2016, 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-22439 Name: Ali HeidarHadar

Sex: M Title: Dr. Good quality a.k.a.: Haidar (Heydar, Haydar)

Justification: Head of the National Reconciliation Agency and former State Minister for National Reconciliation Affairs. As a former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime’sregime’s violent repression against the civilian population. Modifications: Amended on 6 Nov 2013, 19 Jan 2016, 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-28046 Name: Bishr Riyad Yazigi

Sex: M DOB: 1972

Justification: Tourism MinisterFormer Minister of Tourism. As a former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime’s violent repression against the civilian population. Modifications: Listed on 5 Aug 2014, amended on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-28055 Name: Hussein Arnous

Sex: M DOB: 1953 Good quality a.k.a.: Arnus

Justification: Public WorksWater Resources Minister. As a Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime’s violent repression against the civilian population. Modifications: Listed on 5 Aug 2014, amended on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-29846 Name: Mohammad Walid Ghazal

Sex: M DOB: 1951 POB: Aleppo, Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: Former Minister of Housing and Urban Development since 27 Aug 2014Development. As a former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime’s violent repression against the civilian population. Modifications: Listed on 17 Dec 2014, amended on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-35212 Name: al-Sabban Bishr

Sex: M Good quality a.k.a.: a) MohammedAl-Sabban Mohammed Bishr b) Al-Sabban Bishr Mazin

Justification: Former Governor of Damascus, who iswas appointed by, and is associated with, Bashar al-Assad. Supports the regime and is responsible for the violent repression against the civilian population in Syria, including engaging in discriminatory practices against Sunni communities within the capital. Relation: Associated with and was appointed by Bashar Al-Assad (SSID 200-11614) Modifications: Listed on 8 Nov 2016, amended on 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-35622 Name: Naddaf Atef

Sex: M DOB: 1956 POB: Damascus Countryside, Syrian Arab Republic

Justification: a) Higher Education MinisterMinister of Internal Trade and Consumer Protection. Appointed in Nov 2018. b) Appointed in July 2016. Modifications: Listed on 9 Dec 2016, amended on 16 Jun 2017, 17 Jul 2019

SSID: 200-35639 Name: Al-Zafir Ali

Sex: M DOB: 1962 POB: Tartous, Syrian Arab Republic Good quality a.k.a.: al-Dafeer Justification: a) Former Minister of Communications and Technology MinisterTechnology. As a former Government Minister, shares responsibility for the regime’s violent repression against the civilian population. b) Appointed in July 2016. Modifications: Listed on 9 Dec 2016, amended on 16 Jun 2017, 17 Jul 2019

and entity listings:

SSID: 200-22985 Name: Commercial Bank of Syria

Address: a) Moawiya St., P.O.Box 2231, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic (Damascus Branch) b) Yousef Azmeh Square, P.O.Box 933, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic (Damascus Branch) c) Kastel Hajjarin St., P.O.Box 2, Aleppo, Syrian Arab Republic (Aleppo Branch)

Justification: State-owned bank providing financial support to the regime. Other information: a) SWIFT/BIC: CMSY SYDACMSYSYDA, all offices worldwide [NPWMD]. b) Tel.: +963 11 221 8890, Fax: +963 11 221 6975, E-Mail General management: dir.cbs@mail.sy, Website: http://cbs-bank.sy/En-index.php. Modifications: Amended on 19 Jan 2016, 17 Jul 2019

were updated.

Links:

FINMA Notice

Data files of updates – PDF, XML

June 11, 2019: OFAC sanctions Syrian oligarch & his firms

Today, OFAC designated the following persons:

FOZ, Amer (a.k.a. FOZ, Amer Zuhair); DOB 11 Mar 1976; POB Homs, Syria; Gender Male; Passport O6O1O274747 (Syria) (individual) [SYRIA] (Linked To: ASM INTERNATIONAL TRADING, LLC). 

 

FOZ, Husen (a.k.a. FOZ, Hasan; a.k.a. FOZ, Hosn Zuhair; a.k.a. FOZ, Hoson; a.k.a. FOZ, Housen; a.k.a. FOZ, Hussen), Meadows 1, Street 13, Villa 38, Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Adawai Area Rawdet Aleman Bld, 1st Floor, Damascus City, Syria; DOB 25 May 1981; POB Lattakia, Syria; nationality Syria; alt. nationality Saint Kitts and Nevis; citizen Turkey; alt. citizen Syria; Gender Female; Passport U08527769 (Turkey); alt. Passport RE0027450 (Syria); National ID No. 06010274768 (Syria) (individual) [SYRIA] (Linked To: ASM INTERNATIONAL TRADING, LLC). 

 

FOZ, Samer (a.k.a. AL-FOUZ, Samer; a.k.a. FAWAZ, Samer; a.k.a. FAWZ, Samir; a.k.a. FOUZ, Samer; a.k.a. FOZ, Samer Zuhair; a.k.a. FOZ, Samir), Meadows 2, Street 3, Villa 5, Dubai, United Arab Emirates; DOB 20 May 1973; POB Latakia, Syria; nationality Syria; alt. nationality Turkey; alt. nationality Saint Kitts and Nevis; citizen Saint Kitts and Nevis; Gender Male; National ID No. 784197341865828 (Syria) (individual) [SYRIA].

and entities:

AL-MOHAIMEN FOR TRANSPORTING & CONTRACTING (a.k.a. AL MOHAIMEN FOR TRANSPORTATION AND CONTRACTING; a.k.a. AL-MOHAIMEN FOR TRANSPORTING AND CONTRACTING), Lattakia, Syria [SYRIA] (Linked To: AMAN HOLDING COMPANY). 

 

AMAN DAMASCUS JOINT STOCK COMPANY (a.k.a. AMAN DAMASCUS JSC), Damascus, Syria [SYRIA] (Linked To: AMAN HOLDING COMPANY). 

 

AMAN HOLDING COMPANY (a.k.a. AMAN GROUP; a.k.a. AMAN HOLDING GROUP; a.k.a. AMAN HOLDING PRIVATE JSC), Al Shurafa Building Aman Group, Al Moutanabi Street, Lattika, Syria [SYRIA] (Linked To: FOZ, Samer). 

 

ASM INTERNATIONAL TRADING, LLC (a.k.a. ASM INTERNATIONAL GENERAL TRADING COMPANY; a.k.a. ASM INTERNATIONAL GENERAL TRADING LLC), Jumeirah Lake Tower, Cluster 1, Platinum Tower, Office 2405, P.O. Box 36102, Dubai, United Arab Emirates [SYRIA] (Linked To: FOZ, Samer). 

 

BS COMPANY OFFSHORE (a.k.a. B S COMPANY; a.k.a. B.S. COMPANY OFFSHORE; a.k.a. BS COMPANY SAL OFFSHORE), Salame Building, Beit Mery, Lebanon [SYRIA]. 

 

FOUR SEASONS DAMASCUS (a.k.a. DAMASCUS FOUR SEASONS; a.k.a. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DAMASCUS), Shukri Al Quatli Street, P.O. Box 6311, Damascus, Syria [SYRIA] (Linked To: FOZ, Samer). 

 

FOZ FOR TRADING (a.k.a. FOZ TRADING), Syria [SYRIA] (Linked To: AMAN HOLDING COMPANY). 

 

LANA TV, Beirut, Lebanon [SYRIA] (Linked To: FOZ, Samer). 

 

MAINPHARMA (a.k.a. MEENPHARMA), Syria [SYRIA] (Linked To: AMAN HOLDING COMPANY). 

 

MENA CRYSTAL SUGAR COMPANY LIMITED (a.k.a. M.E.N.A. CRYSTAL SUGAR COMPANY; a.k.a. M.E.N.A. SUGAR COMPANY; a.k.a. MENA SUGAR COMPANY), Homs, Syria [SYRIA] (Linked To: AMAN HOLDING COMPANY). 

 

ORIENT CLUB, Al Najmeh Square – Abou Romaaneh 6737, Damascus, Syria [SYRIA] (Linked To: FOZ, Samer). 

 

SILVER PINE (a.k.a. SILVER PINE DMCC), Jumeirah Lake Tower, Cluster 1, Platinum Tower, Office 2405, P.O. Box 36102, Dubai, United Arab Emirates [SYRIA] (Linked To: FOZ, Husen). 

 

SYNERGY SAL OFFSHORE, Azarieh street – Azarieh building, Beirut, Lebanon [SYRIA].

under the Syria sanctions program.

And the Treasury Department explained it all in a press release:

Treasury Designates Syrian Oligarch Samer Foz and His Luxury Reconstruction Business Empire 

Designations include the Foz family and companies across the Middle East profiting from conflict and the Assad regime’s brutality

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating 16 individuals and entities associated with an international network benefiting the Assad regime.  These designations serve to cut off critical supplies and financiers for the regime’s luxury reconstruction and investment efforts.  This action reinforces the United States’ commitment to imposing a financial toll on those supporting Assad’s authoritarian rule, including Syrian oligarch Samer Foz.

“Samer Foz, his relatives, and his business empire have leveraged the atrocities of the Syrian conflict into a profit-generating enterprise.  This Syrian oligarch is directly supporting the murderous Assad regime and building luxury developments on land stolen from those fleeing his brutality,” said Undersecretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Sigal Mandelker.  “Treasury is committed to holding accountable profiteers who enrich the coffers of the Assad regime while Syrian civilians suffer this man-made humanitarian crisis.”

LUXURY RECONSTRUCTION AND INVESTMENT IN SYRIA

Samer Foz has been profiting heavily from reconstruction efforts in Syria—including through luxury developments on land seized by the Syrian regime from its own people—and has been attempting to enlist foreign investors into Syrian reconstruction projects.

On January 21, 2019, the European Union sanctioned Samer Foz, Aman Damascus, and 14 other individuals and entities for using their ties with the Syrian regime for their own financial benefit, and for helping to finance the regime including through joint ventures formed with regime­backed companies to develop land expropriated from persons displaced by the conflict in Syria.  Those persons sanctioned by the EU have been supporting and benefiting from the Assad regime’s brutality, and their reconstruction investments prevent displaced persons from returning to their homes.

In 2012, Assad signed a decree to expel citizens in poorer areas of Damascus from their homes to pave the way for luxury reconstruction projects, including Marota City in the Mazzeh District.  To fund and fulfill these contracts, the regime formed joint ventures with private businessmen, including Samer Foz.  This tactic—taking over property owned by Syrian citizens and handing the land to wealthy regime insiders to develop in exchange for revenue sharing—has emerged as Assad’s go-to strategy for high-end reconstruction in war-torn Syria.  In October 2017, Samer Foz’s company, Aman Holding, entered into one such partnership with the Assad regime when it and state-owned Damascus Cham PJSC formed a company called Aman Damascus, in which Aman Holding has the majority share.  Aman Damascus was awarded the rights to build three skyscrapers and five exclusive housing properties in a contract valued at U.S. $312 million.

Samer Foz is the Chairman and General Manager of Aman Holding, which was formerly known as the Aman Group.  Aman Holding owns and controls over a dozen companies, all of which benefit Samer Foz personally and ultimately allow him to invest more in Assad’s luxury reconstruction projects.  Samer Foz’s Lebanon-based Lana TV, which is also being designated today, has been used to solicit investment in Syria by airing commercials for Marota City.

FOZ FAMILY AND ASM INTERNATIONAL GENERAL TRADING

Samer Foz’s Aman Holding serves as an umbrella for over a dozen different ventures, and in some of these companies, Samer Foz shares ownership and managerial duties with his siblings Amer Foz and Husen Foz.  One such venture is UAE-based ASM International General Trading, LLC (ASM International Trading), where Amer Foz is the General Manager, Husen Foz is the Chief Operating Officer, and Samer Foz is the Chief Executive Officer.  While many of the Foz family’s ventures are located in Syria, this UAE-based company serves as a means of exploiting the international financial system outside of Syria.

Although much of ASM International Trading’s overt trade is in foodstuff commodities such as grain and sugar, the company also operates in the fields of oilfield services, drilling products, and supplies to the oil and natural gas industry.  Additionally, Husen Foz’s company, Silverpine DMCC, is also being designated today.  Silverpine is an international trading company that operates out of the ASM International Trading offices.

Facilitating Shipments of Iranian Oil to Syria

The following Lebanon­based entities are being designated for having facilitated shipments of Iranian-origin petroleum to Syria:  Synergy SAL (Offshore) and BS Company (Offshore).

Synergy SAL (Offshore) has shipped tens of thousands of metric tons of Iranian oil into Syria in the past year by sea.  Some of the vessels used by Synergy SAL (Offshore) to conduct these illicit shipments also appear in the OFAC Advisory to the Maritime Shipping Community.

Additionally, BS Company (Offshore) is one of the largest importers of crude oil into Syria, and has imported hundreds of thousands of metric tons of Iranian light crude oil in the past year using a variety of oil tanker vessels and tanker trucks.  These land- and sea-based shipments are destined for Banias Refinery Company, which is identified as meeting the definition of Government of Syria pursuant to E.O. 13582.  BS Company (Offshore) is also affiliated with the Qatirji Group.  As of September 5, 2018, the Qatirji Group and its co-owner Mohammad Bara Qatirji are subject to U.S. sanctions pursuant to Executive Order 13582.

SAMER FOZ’S SYRIA-BASED ASSETS

Also under the umbrella of Aman Holding—and being designated today—are the following Syria-based entities:  Foz for Trading, Al-Mohaimen for Transportation and Contracting, MENA Crystal Sugar, and Mainpharma.  Aman Holding’s trading arm conducts international commodities trading with dozens of countries, while its transportation arm facilitates transfers of bulk cargo to Syria by land and sea using a fleet of tanker trucks and vessels.  MENA Crystal Sugar is one of the largest sugar refineries in the Middle East, and is located near Homs, Syria.  Mainpharma is located near Damascus and is valued at over U.S. $20 million.

ATTEMPTS TO GAIN INFLUENCE IN THE FINANCIAL SECTOR

In an attempt to gain further access, influence, and profit from the financial sector, Samer Foz has been gaining footholds in Syria financial sector, including recent purchases of ownership shares in the Syrian International Islamic Bank (SIIB) and Al Baraka Bank Syria.  Samer Foz has also been seeking to establish a financial institution in Syria in partnership with a Russian bank in order to attract Russian investors to Syria.

In addition to trading, banking, construction, and commodities companies, Samer Foz also owns the Four Seasons Damascus and the Orient Club, which are also being designated today.

DESIGNATION BASES AND AUTHORITIES

Samer Foz has materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services in support of, Bashar Al-Assad, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573.  Samer Foz has also materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, the Government of Syria, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13582.

Aman Holding Company is owned or controlled by, directly or indirectly, Samer Foz, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

ASM International Trading, LLC is owned or controlled by, directly or indirectly, Samer Foz, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

Amer Foz has acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, ASM International Trading, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

Husen Foz has acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, ASM International Trading, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

Silverpine DMCC is owned or controlled by, directly or indirectly, Husen Foz, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

MENA Crystal Sugar Company Limited is owned or controlled by, directly or indirectly, Aman Holding, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

MAINPHARMA is owned or controlled by, directly or indirectly, Aman Holding, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

Aman Damascus Joint Stock Company is owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by Aman Holding, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

Foz for Trading is owned or controlled by, directly or indirectly, Aman Holding, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

AI-Mohaimen for Transportation & Contracting is owned or controlled by, directly or indirectly, Aman Holding, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

Orient Club is owned or controlled by, directly or indirectly, Sarner Foz, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

Lana TV is owned or controlled by Samer Foz and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

The Four Seasons Damascus is owned or controlled by, directly or indirectly, Samer Foz, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13573 and E.O. 13582.

BS Company (Offshore) has materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services in support of, Banias Refinery Company, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13582.

Synergy SAL (Offshore) has materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services in support of, Banias Refinery Company, and is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13582.

As a result of today’s action, all property and interests in property of these individuals and entities that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons must be blocked and reported to OFAC.  OFAC’s regulations generally prohibit all dealings by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of blocked or designated persons. 

Links:

OFAC Notice

Treasury Press Release

May 22, 2019: EU, OFSI remove 9, amend 29 under Syria program

On Wednesday, UK regulators implemented Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/798 by removing the following 7 people:

1. AL-JASSIM Fahid

Title: Lt. General a.k.a: AL-JASSIM, Fahd Position: Chief of Staff Other Information: Military official involved in the violence in Homs Listed on: 02/12/2011 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12414

2. JARAD Ahmed Yousef

Title: Brigadier General a.k.a: (1) JARAD, Ahmad, Yousef (2) JARAD, Ahmad, Youssef (3) JARAD, Ahmed, Youssef (4) JARRAD, Ahmad, Yousef (5) JARRAD, Ahmad, Youssef (6) JARRAD, Ahmed, Yousef (7) JARRAD, Ahmed, Youssef Position: Commander of 132nd Brigade Listed on: 24/01/2012 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12464.

3. MAKHLOUF Mohsin

Title: Brigadier General Listed on: 24/01/2012 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12473.

4. HASSAN Suheil Salman

Title: Major General a.k.a: HASSAN, Suhail, Salman Position: Commander of 5th Division Listed on: 24/01/2012 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12476.

5. AL ZU’BI Omran Ahed

DOB: 27/09/1959. POB: Damascus a.k.a: (1) AL ZO’BI, Omran, Ahed (2) AL ZOU’BI, Omran , Ahed (3) AL ZOUBI, Omran, Ahed Other Information: Former Minister of Information Listed on: 16/10/2012 Last Updated: 07/06/2017 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12780.

6. AL SAYED Mohammed Turki

Position: Former Minister of Industry Listed on: 16/10/2012 Last Updated: 30/05/2014 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12786.

7. AL-DIN Isam Zahr

Title: Brigadier General DOB: –/–/1961. POB: Tarba, As-Suwayda province Syria a.k.a: (1) AL-DEEN, Issam , Zaher (2) AL-DIN, Isam, Zuhair (3) ASSADLLAH, Nafed (4) ZAHREDDINE, Issam (5) ZAHRUDDIN, Essam (6) ZAHRUDDIN, Issam (7) ZOHRUDDIN, Isam Other Information: Holds the rank of Brigadier General, a senior officer in the Republican Guard, in post after May 2011. Listed on: 18/07/2017 Last Updated: 27/09/2017 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13500.

and 2 entities:

1. DREX TECHNOLOGIES HOLDING S.A.

Address: 17 rue Beaumont, Luxembourg (previous address), L-1219. Other Information: Registered in Luxembourg under number B77616. Beneficial owner is Rami Makhlouf Listed on: 17/08/2012 Last Updated: 17/08/2012 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12736.

2. DK GROUP

a.k.a: (1) DK Group Sarl (2) DK Middle- East & Africa Regional Office Address: (1) Azarieh Building, Block 03, 5th Floor Azarieh Street, Solidere Downtown, PO Box 11-503, Beirut, Lebanon.(2) DK Middle-East & Africa Regional Office, Peres Lazaristes Center, No. 3, 5th Floor, Emir Bachir Street, Beirut Central District, Bachoura Sector, Beirut, Lebanon.Other Information: DK Group supplies new banknotes to the Central Bank of Syria. Listed on: 09/03/2015 Last Updated: 09/03/2015 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13240.

from its Syria sanctions program: and amending the following 29:

1. ZAYTUN Muhammad Dib

DOB: 20/05/1951. POB: Jubba, Damascus province, Syria a.k.a: (1) ZEITOUN, Mohammed, Dib (2) ZEITUN, Mohamed, Dib Passport Details: D000001300 (Diplomatic) Position: Head of General Security Directorate Listed on: 10/05/2011 Last Updated: 02/06/2015 22/05/2019 Group ID: 11907.

2. ABBAS Amjad

a.k.a: AL-ABBAS, Amjad Position: Head of Political Security in Banyas Other Information: Former Head of Political Security in Banyas Listed on: 10/05/2011 Last Updated: 04/07/2018 22/05/2019 Group ID: 11912.

3. HASSAN Jamil

Title: Major General DOB: –/–/1953 07/07/1953 POB: Quasayr, Homs province, Syria a.k.a: (1) AL-HASSAN, Jamil (2) HASSAN, Jameel Position: Head of Syrian Air Force Intelligence Other Information: Major-General in the Syrian Air Force. Listed on: 10/05/2011 Last Updated: 01/10/2016 22/05/2019 Group ID: 11906.

4. BILAL Mohammed

Title: Colonel Brigadier General a.k.a: BILAL, Lieutenant Colonel, Muhammad Position: Senior officer in the Air Force Intelligence Service of Syria Other Information: He is associated with the listed Scientific Studies Research Centre (SSRC). Listed on: 22/10/2014 Last Updated: 22/10/2014 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13162.

5. AL HASSAN Bassam

DOB: –/–/1953 a.k.a: AL HASAN, Bassam Position: Presidential Advisor for Strategic Affairs Listed on: 24/05/2011 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 11935.

6. YOUNES Tawfiq

Title: Major General a.k.a: (1) YOUNES, Tawfik (2) YUNES, Tawfig (3) YUNES, Tawfik Position: Head of the Department for Internal Security of the General Intelligence Directorate Other Information: Former Head of the Department for Internal Security of the General Intelligence Directorate Listed on: 02/08/2011 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12025.

7. AL-ALI Lu’ai

Title: Colonel POB: Jablah, Latakia Province a.k.a: (1) AL-ALI, Loai (2) AL-ALI, Louay Position: Head of Syrian Military Intelligence, Dara’a Branch Listed on: 15/11/2011 Last Updated: 02/06/2015 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12210.

8. BARAKAT Ali

Title: Brigadier Major General Position: 103rd Brigade of the Republican Guard Division. Listed on: 02/12/2011 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12417.

9. MAKHLUF Talal

Title: Major General a.k.a: MAKHLOUF, Talal Position: Current commander general of the Republican Guards. Commander of the 2nd Corps. Other Information: Former commander of the 105th Brigade of the Republican Guards. Former commander general of the Republican Guards. Listed on: 02/12/2011 Last Updated: 04/07/2018 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12418.

10. KHADDOR Mohamed

Title: Brigadier Major General a.k.a: (1) KHADDOR, Mohammad (2) KHADDOR, Mohammed (3) KHADDOR, Muhammad (4) KHADDOUR, Mohamed (5) KHADDOUR, Mohammad (6) KHADDOUR, Mohammed (7) KHADDOUR, Muhammad (8) KHADDUR, Mohamed (9) KHADDUR, Mohammad (10) KHADDUR, Mohammed (11) KHADDUR, Muhammad (12) KHADOUR, Mohamed (13) KHADOUR, Mohammad (14) KHADOUR, Mohammed (15) KHADOUR, Muhammad (16) KHUDOUR, Mohamed (17) KHUDOUR, Mohammad (18) KHUDOUR, Mohammed (19) KHUDOUR, Muhammad Position: Commander of the 106th Brigade, Presidential Guard Listed on: 24/01/2012 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12475.

11. IBRAHIM Mohamed Heikmat

a.k.a: (1) IBRAHIM, Mohamed, Hekmat (2) IBRAHIM, Mohamed, Hikmat (3) IBRAHIM, Mohammad, Heikmat (4) IBRAHIM, Mohammad, Hekmat (5) IBRAHIM, Mohammad, Hikmat (6) IBRAHIM, Mohammed, Heikmat (7) IBRAHIM, Mohammed, Hekmat (8) IBRAHIM, Mohammed, Hikmat (9) IBRAHIM, Muhammad, Heikmat (10) IBRAHIM, Muhammad, Hekmat (11) IBRAHIM, Muhammad, Hikmat Position: Head of Operations Branch (Political Security Directorate) Other Information: Former Head of Operations Branch (Political Security Directorate) Listed on: 24/01/2012 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12480.

12. QADOUR Burhan

Title: Brigadier General a.k.a: (1) QADDOUR, Burhan (2) QADDUR, Burhan Position: Head of Branch 291 (Damascus) of the army’s intelligence service. Other Information: Former Head of Branch 291 (Damascus) of the army’s intelligence service. Listed on: 24/07/2012 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12706.

13. AL-ABDULLAH Suhail

Title: Colonel Brigadier General a.k.a: (1) AL-ABDALLAH, Suhail (2) AL-ABDALLAH, Suheil (3) AL-ABDULLAH, Suheil Position: Head of the Latakia Branch of the air force’s intelligence service. Listed on: 24/07/2012 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12714.

14. LUQA Hussam

Title: Brigadier Major General DOB: –/–/1964 POB: Damascus a.k.a: (1) LOUCA, Housam (2) LOUCA, Houssam (3) LOUCA, Husam (4) LOUCA, Hussam (5) LOUKA, Housam (6) LOUKA, Houssam (7) LOUKA, Husam (8) LOUKA, Hussam (9) LOUQA, Housam (10) LOUQA, Houssam (11) LOUQA, Husam (12) LOUQA, Hussam (13) LUKA, Housam (14) LUKA, Houssam (15) LUKA, Husam (16) LUKA, Hussam (17) LUQA, Housam (18) LUQA, Houssam (19) LUQA, Husam Position: Head of the Homs branch of the Political Security Directorate Other Information: Former Head of the Homs branch of the Political Security Directorate Listed on: 24/07/2012 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12718.

15. AL-JARROUCHEH Ahmed

DOB: –/–/1957. a.k.a: (1) AL-JAROUCHA, Ahmad (2) AL-JAROUCHA, Ahmed (3) AL- JAROUCHAH, Ahmad (4) ALJAROUCHAH, Ahmed (5) AL-JAROUCHEH, Ahmad (6) AL- JAROUCHEH, Ahmed (7) AL-JAROUSHA, Ahmad (8) ALJAROUSHA, Ahmed (9) AL- JAROUSHEH, Ahmad (10) AL-JAROUSHEH, Ahmed (11) AL-JARROUCHEH, Ahmad Position: Head of the foreign branch of General Intelligence (branch 279) Other Information: Responsible for General Intelligence arrangements in Syrian embassies Former Head of the foreign branch of General Intelligence (branch 279) Listed on: 24/07/2012 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12724.

16. AL WEZ Hazwan

Title: Dr. a.k.a: AL WAZZ, Hazwan Position: Minister of Education Other Information: Former Minister of Education Listed on: 16/10/2012 Last Updated: 31/05/2013 22/05/2019 Group ID: 12772.

17. AL-SABBAN Bishr

DOB: –/–/1966 POB: Damascus, Syria a.k.a: (1) AL-SABBAN, Bishr, Mazin (2) AL- SABBAN, Mohammed Bishr Other Information: Former Governor of Damascus, who was appointed by, and is associated with, Bashar al-Assad. Supports the regime and is responsible for the violent repression against the civilian population in Syria, including engaging in discriminatory practices against Sunni communities within the capital. Listed on: 28/10/2016 Last Updated: 05/03/2019 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13386.

18. ABDUL-QADER Ahmad Sheik

a.k.a: (1) ABDULQUADER, Ahmad, al-Sheik (2) QADIR, Ahmad, Sheikh, Abdul Other Information: Former Governor of Quneitra. Previously Governor of Latakia. Listed on: 28/10/2016 Last Updated: 28/10/2016 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13387.

19. KHALAF Ghassan Omar

Title: Dr Other Information: Former Governor of Hama and closely associated with members of a regime-affiliated militia in Hama known as the Hama Brigade. Listed on: 28/10/2016 Last Updated: 28/10/2016 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13388.

20. AL-SAYYED Khayr Al-Din

a.k.a: (1) AL-SAYYED, Khaireddin (2) AL-SAYYED, Khayr, al-Din, Abdul-Sattar (3) AL- SAYYED, Kheir, Eddin (4) AL-SAYYED, Kheredden (5) AL-SAYYED, Mohamed, Khair (6) ASAYED, Kheir, Eddib (7) AS-SAYYED, Khairuddin Other Information: Former Governor of Idlib. Associated with the regime’s Minister of Awqaf, Dr Mohammad Abdul-Satar al-Sayyed, who is his brother. Listed on: 28/10/2016 Last Updated: 28/10/2016 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13389.

21. AL-HASAN Nabil

DOB: –/–/1963. POB: Aleppo a.k.a: AL-HASSAN, Nabil Position: Minister of Water Resources Other Information: Former Minister of Water Resources Listed on: 14/11/2016 Last Updated: 15/11/2016 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13405.

22. AL-GHARBI Abdullah

DOB: –/–/1962. POB: Damascus a.k.a: AL-QIRBI, Abdullah Position: Minister of Internal Trade and Consumer Protection Other Information: Former Minister of Internal Trade and Consumer Protection Listed on: 14/11/2016 Last Updated: 15/11/2016 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13407.

23. DURGHAM Duraid

Position: Governor of the Central Bank of Syria Other Information: Former Governor of the Central Bank of Syria Listed on: 14/11/2016 Last Updated: 15/11/2016 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13413.

24. WANUS Ali

Title: Brigadier Major General DOB: 05/02/1964. a.k.a: WANNOUS, Ali Other Information: Holds the rank of Brigadier Major General, in post after May 2011. He is associated with the Syrian Scientific Studies and Research Centre. Listed on: 18/07/2017 Last Updated: 18/07/2017 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13494.

25. YOUSEF Mohamed Mazen Ali

DOB: 17/05/1969. POB: Damascus Countryside, Syria Position: Minister of Industry Other Information: Former Minister of Industry. Appointed in January 2018. Listed on: 27/02/2018 Last Updated: 27/02/2018 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13613.

26. JAMALEDDINE Nazir Ahmad NAZER Jamal Eddin Mohammed

DOB: –/–/1962 02/01/1962 POB: Damascus, Syria a.k.a: (1) JAMALEDDINE, Nazir, Ahmad, Mohammed (2) NAZIR, Ahmad Nationality: Syrian Passport Details: N 011612445, issue no. 002-17-L022286 (place of issue: Syrian Arab Republic) National Identification no: 010-3028342 (Place of issue: Syrian Arab Republic) Position: Cofounder and majority shareholder of Apex Development and Projects LLC and founder of A’ayan Company for Projects and Equipment Other Information: Leading businessperson operating in Syria with significant investments in the construction industry, including a controlling 90 % stake in Apex Development and Projects LLC, which has entered into a USD 34,8 million joint venture for the construction of Marota City, a regime-backed luxury residential and commercial development. Through his participation in the Marota City development, Nazir Ahmad JamalEddine Jamal Eddin Mohammed Nazer benefits from and/or supports the Syrian regime. Listed on: 22/01/2019 Last Updated: 22/01/2019 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13753.

27. QADDOUR Hayan Mohammad Nazem KADDOUR Hayan

DOB: –/–/1970. (1) 14/07/1970 (2) 24/07/1970 POB: Damascus, Syria a.k.a: (1) NAZEM, Hayyan, Kaddour, bin, Mohammed (2) QADDOUR Hayan Mohammad Nazem Nationality: Syrian Nationality: (1) Syrian (2) Swiss Passport Details: X4662433 (place of issue: Switzerland); N 004599905 (place of issue: Syrian Arab Republic) Position: Primary Shareholder of Exceed Development and Investment Company Other Information: Leading businessperson operating in Syria, who holds a 67 % stake in Exceed Development and Investment, which has entered into a USD 17,7 million joint venture for the construction of Marota City, a regime- backed luxury residential and commercial development. Through his participation in the Marota City development, Hayan Mohammad Nazem Qaddour benefits from and/or supports the Syrian regime. Listed on: 22/01/2019 Last Updated: 22/01/2019 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13761.

28. AL-AZAB Imad Muwaffaq

DOB: –/–/1970. POB: Damascus Countryside Position: Minister of Information Listed on: 04/03/2019 Last Updated: 04/03/2019 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13773.

29. IBRAHIM Bassam Bashir

DOB: –/–/1960. POB: Hama Other Information: Minister of Higher Education. Appointed in November 2018. Listed on: 04/03/2019 Last Updated: 04/03/2019 22/05/2019 Group ID: 13774.

Links:

OFSI Notice

Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/798

May 17, 2019: EU extends Syria sanctions for another year

Link:

EU Notice

While I was at ACAMS: 3-for-1 OFAC settlements with UniCredit Germany, Austria and Italy units

Settlement Agreements between the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control and UniCredit Group Banks

4/15/2019

The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today announced three separate settlements totaling $611 million with the following UniCredit Group banks: UniCredit Bank AG in Germany, UniCredit Bank Austria AG in Austria, and UniCredit S.p.A. in Italy.  The settlements resolve OFAC’s investigations into apparent violations of a number of U.S. sanctions programs, including those related to weapons of mass destruction proliferation, global terrorism, and the following countries: Burma, Cuba, Iran, Libya, Sudan, and Syria.

Between January 2007 and December 2011, UniCredit Bank AG processed over 2,000 payments totaling over $500 million through financial institutions in the United States in apparent violation of multiple U.S. sanctions programs.  During this time period, UniCredit operated U.S. dollar accounts on behalf of the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) and several companies owned by or otherwise affiliated with IRISL, and managed the accounts of those companies in a manner that obscured the interest or involvement of IRISL in transactions sent to or through U.S. intermediaries.  For a number of years up to and including 2011 (UniCredit Bank AG) and 2012 (UniCredit Bank Austria AG and UniCredit S.p.A.), all three banks processed payments to or through the United States in a manner that did not disclose underlying sanctioned persons or countries to U.S. financial institutions which were acting as financial intermediaries.

 

OFAC determined that the apparent violations largely constituted egregious cases and that the banks did not voluntarily self-disclose the apparent violations.

After Mr. Watchlist gets back from ACAMS, he will dig into the Enforcement Information and Settlement Agreements.

By the way, this is part of a multi-agency settlement totaling 1.3 billion dollars.

Links:

OFAC Notice

Enforcement Information

Settlement Agreements: UniCredit Bank AG (Germany), UniCredit Bank Austria AG, UniCredit S.p.A. (Italy)

Two persons removed from EU, UK Syria sanctions

Due to a January 31 judgment from the General Court of the European Union (published in the Official Journal on March 18), the following person:

ABDULKARIM Wael

DOB: 30/09/1973. POB: Danascus, Syria a.k.a: AL KARIM, Wael Address: Al Karim for Trade and Industry, PO Box 111, Damascus, Syria, 5797.Other Information: Leading businessperson of Palestinian origin operating In Syria in the oil, chemicals and manufacturing industries. Specifically, he represents Abdulkarim Group, a.k.a Al Karim Group/AlKarim for Trade and Industry/Al Karim Trading and Industry/Al Karim for the Trade and Industry. Abdulkarim Group is a leading manufacturer of lubricants, greases and industrial chemicals in Syria. Listed on: 09/03/2015 Last Updated: 18/03/2019 11/04/2019

Group ID: 13230.

and entity:

ABDULKARIM GROUP

a.k.a: (1) Al Karim for Trade and Industry (2) Al Karim Group Address: 5797 , Damascus, Syria.Other Information: An internationally recognised Syrian conglomerate associated with Wael Abdulkarim who is listed as a leading business person operating in Syria Listed on: 11/07/2017 Last Updated: 11/07/2017 11/04/2019 Group ID: 13492.

have been removed from the EU and UK Syria sanctions program.

Links:

OFSI Notice

Court Judgements: Mouhamad Wael Abdulkarim, Abdulkarim Group