US sanctions Nigerians and groups linked to terrorism and cybercrime
The United States has frozen the assets and properties of several Nigerians accused of ties to terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and ISIL, as well as those involved in cybercrime. The US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) detailed these sanctions in a 3,000-page document updated by OFAC on February 10. The list includes over 20 Nigerians and organisations operating in the country. The sanctions block all property and interests of these individuals and entities within US jurisdiction.
What we know
- The US government sanctioned individuals and organisations for links to Boko Haram, ISIL, and cybercrime, as detailed in an OFAC document updated on February 10.
- Notable names on the list include Khalid al‑Barnawi, Abubakar Shekau, Abu Musab al‑Barnawi, and several others with alleged ties to terrorism.
- Organisations such as Boko Haram, Ansaru, and ISIS-West Africa are also sanctioned as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists.
- The sanctions mean all property and interests within US jurisdiction are blocked, and US persons are prohibited from transactions with those listed.
- The OFAC list serves as a reference for actions taken against Specially Designated Nationals as part of US counter-terrorism and cybercrime efforts.
