The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched investigations into the activities of UAE-based companies linked to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), after the United States sanctioned them over the Sudan conflict.
In a statement on Friday, the UAE Ministry of Justice said that the seven specific companies targeted by U.S. sanctions for links to the RSF do not hold valid commercial licenses in the Emirates.
The ministry confirmed on Friday an investigation into their activities and associated persons is underway.
Last January, the United States imposed sanctions on RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo “Hemetti,” another individual, and seven UAE-based companies linked to the paramilitary group.
The sanctions stem from Executive Order 14098, issued by then-President Joe Biden on May 4, 2023, which cited the Sudan situation as a threat to U.S. national security and foreign policy.
“The Ministry confirms that none of these seven companies hold a valid commercial license in the UAE, and none are currently conducting business in the country,” the UAE statement
Relevant UAE authorities continue to monitor for potential suspicious activities in line with national laws, the statement noted.
Abu Dhabi launched its own probe into the firms and individuals immediately upon being notified of the U.S. sanctions and has requested more information from Washington to assist, the ministry explained.
The U.S. Treasury Department had previously identified Capital Tap Holding, owned by Sudanese national Abu Dhar Abdel Nabi Habiballah and managing 50 companies in 10 countries, as a key sanctioned entity.
Habiballah was designated by the U.S. as a senior board member of Capital Tap Holding, subjecting his property and interests to sanctions.
Other sanctioned companies included Capital Tap General Trading, Al-Zumurrud wa Al-Yaqut for Gold and Jewelry,
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