Mr. Sanctions

Category: Narcotics Trafficking

  • May 20, 2026: Additions to OFAC Counter-Narcotics and Counter-Terrorism programs

    Counter Narcotics and Counter Terrorism Designations

    Additions:

    The following individuals have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    • OFAC Programs:
      • [SDGT]   Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594
      • [ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059]   Executive Order 14059

    AISPURO FELIX, Jesus Alonso

    • Address: Mexico
    • DOB: 01 Aug 1981
    • POB: Durango, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: AIFJ810801HDGSLS08 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: SINALOA CARTEL

    Supplemental Information: The Sinaloa Cartel was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) by the U.S. Department of State on February 20, 2025, following Executive Order 14157 issued by President Trump on January 20, 2025. No prior OFAC designation record found for this individual.

     

    BOJORQUEZ CHAPARRO, Castulo

    • Address: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • DOB: 23 Mar 1978
    • POB: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: BOCC780323HSLJHS08 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: GONZALEZ PENUELAS, Jesus

    Supplemental Information: Jesus Gonzalez Penuelas (a.k.a. “El Chuy Gonzalez”) is the leader of the Gonzalez Penuelas Drug Trafficking Organization, designated by OFAC under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act in May 2021. OFAC has described the Gonzalez Penuelas DTO as one of the largest sources of raw opium gum and heroin in northern Mexico and a major distributor of fentanyl to U.S. markets. No prior OFAC designation record found for this individual.

     

    CASTRO ROCHA, Noe de Jesus

    • Address: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • DOB: 10 Nov 1975
    • POB: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: CARN751110HSLSCX05 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: GONZALEZ PENUELAS, Jesus

     

    GARCIA SANDOVAL, Fredi Ismael

    • Address: Mexico City, Mexico
    • DOB: 29 Aug 1973
    • POB: Chihuahua, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: GASF730829HCHRNR09 (Mexico)
    • RFC: GAGF9908292X4 (Mexico)
    • alt. RFC: GASF730829UN5 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: GONZALEZ PENUELAS, Jesus

     

    MORENO ZAMORA, Luis Arnulfo

    • Address: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • DOB: 01 Feb 1990
    • POB: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: MOZL900201HSLRMS01 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: GONZALEZ PENUELAS, Jesus

     

    OJEDA AVILES, Armando de Jesus

    • Address: Mexico
    • DOB: 01 May 1985
    • POB: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Digital Currency Address – ETH: 0x038989cbb1710c72b9920dc4fa529158f463e72c
    • alt. Digital Currency Address – ETH: 0x14779CEC0B117d5194c750C55Ea1f42086631964
    • alt. Digital Currency Address – ETH: 0x32dA24Ca413F3E7B53145D4737e172C3bdF81e3e
    • alt. Digital Currency Address – ETH: 0xf2235d55b2950a0b1317469d72d07ae65b2e27cb
    • alt. Digital Currency Address – ETH: 0x4F428c11Dc82388fa5136D636e613ad923Eb700B
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: OEAA850501HSLJVR09 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: SINALOA CARTEL

    Supplemental Information: OFAC identified five Ethereum cryptocurrency wallet addresses associated with this individual, reflecting the Sinaloa Cartel’s documented use of digital assets to move illicit proceeds. The Sinaloa Cartel was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization and SDGT on February 20, 2025. No prior OFAC designation record found for this individual.

     

    OROZCO ROMERO, Alfredo

    • Address: Mexico
    • DOB: 29 May 1979
    • POB: Chihuahua, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • R.F.C.: OORA790529H89 (Mexico)
    • C.U.R.P.: OORA790529HCHRML03 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: OJEDA AVILES, Armando de Jesus

     

    OROZCO ROMERO, Liliana

    • Address: Mexico
    • DOB: 14 Jan 1976
    • POB: Chihuahua, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Female
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • R.F.C.: OORL760114EN6 (Mexico)
    • C.U.R.P.: OORL760114MCHRML06 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: OROZCO ROMERO, Alfredo

     

    ROMERO MORENO, Amalia Margarita

    • Address: Mexico
    • DOB: 23 Dec 1957
    • POB: Chihuahua, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Female
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: ROMA571223MCHMRM07 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: OROZCO ROMERO, Alfredo

     

    SAENZ AGUILAR, Baltazar

    • Address: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • DOB: 12 Aug 1985
    • POB: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: SAAB850812HSLNGL03 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: GONZALEZ PENUELAS, Jesus

     

    OFAC Program: [ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059]   Executive Order 14059

    ALARCON PALOMARES, Rodrigo

    • Address: Mexico
    • DOB: 21 Jun 1996
    • POB: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Digital Currency Address – ETH: 0xaC4cC4B68ea24BbFAAC8fD127B67Ed445ACcCE22
    • C.U.R.P.: AAPR960621HSLLLD02 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual

     

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    • OFAC Programs:
      • [SDGT]   Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594
      • [ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059]   Executive Order 14059

    GORDITAS CHIWAS

    • Address: Chihuahua, Mexico
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 11 Jan 2006
    • Organization Type: Restaurants and mobile food service activities
    • R.F.C.: ROMA5712239X0 (Mexico)
    • Linked To: OROZCO ROMERO, Alfredo

     

    GRUPO ESPECIAL MAMBA NEGRA, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.

    • Address: Chihuahua, Mexico
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 25 Mar 2010
    • Organization Type: Private security activities
    • Folio Mercantil No.: 25872 (Mexico)
    • Linked To: OROZCO ROMERO, Alfredo

     

    Amendments:

    The following changes have been made to OFAC’s SDN List:

    • OFAC Programs:
      • [SDNTK]   Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 598
      • [SDGT]   Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594
      • [ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059]   Executive Order 14059

    GONZALEZ PENUELAS, Jesus (Latin: GONZÁLEZ PEÑUELAS, Jesús)

    • AKA: “EL CHUY GONZALEZ”
    • Address: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • DOB: 10 Nov 1969
    • POB: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: GOPJ691110HSLNXS09 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: SINALOA CARTEL

    Supplemental Information: Jesus Gonzalez Penuelas, known as “El Chuy Gonzalez,” was originally designated by OFAC under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (Kingpin Act) on May 12, 2021 as the leader of the Gonzalez Penuelas Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO). OFAC identified the Gonzalez Penuelas DTO as one of the largest sources of raw opium gum and heroin in northern Mexico and a major distributor of fentanyl to U.S. markets, with operations primarily in Sinaloa and Sonora, Mexico, and distribution cells in California, Texas, Colorado, Washington, Utah, and Nevada. He has been indicted on drug trafficking charges by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California (2017) and by the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado (2018) and remains a fugitive. Today’s amendment adds the [SDGT] and [ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059] program tags to his existing [SDNTK] designation and formally links him to the Sinaloa Cartel — designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S. Department of State in February 2025 — extending counterterrorism authorities to his designation.

     

    List of Changes:

    • Field Name: Secondary sanctions risk
      • Added: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Field Name: Program Tags
      • Changed: [SDNTK] to: [SDNTK] [SDGT] [ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059]
    • Field Name: Linked To
      • Added: SINALOA CARTEL

    Mr. Sanctions’ Note: There was no associated press release, so the Supplemental Information came from Claude searching far and wide for things to add to OFAC’s listings.

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  • Burning Question: What does a secondary designation under the OFAC counter-terrorism program mean for the Iran and counter-narcotics designees?

    What Does Adding a Counter-Terrorism Designation Actually Add?

    The right way to think about this is in terms of marginal impact — what additional legal, financial, political, and compliance burden does the SDGT tag bring when layered on top of a pre-existing program designation? And does that marginal impact differ depending on whether the baseline is Iran sanctions or a counter-narcotics designation?

    The short answer is: yes, substantially. Adding CT to a narcotics designation is a much larger step than adding CT to an Iran designation, because Iran sanctions already cover much of the same ground — and then some — that the CT program brings. By contrast, a counter-narcotics designee who picks up an SDGT tag is crossing into a meaningfully different legal universe.

    What the Counter-Terrorism Designation Brings Independently

    Before comparing the additive effects, it helps to be clear about what the SDGT designation itself contributes:

    Asset blocking and U.S. person prohibitions. All assets within U.S. financial systems or under U.S. control are immediately frozen. U.S. persons must block all property and interests in property of SDNs within U.S. jurisdiction and avoid any transactions with them. Entities owned 50% or more by one or more SDNs are also considered blocked, even if not explicitly listed.

    Civil and criminal penalties (strict liability). Even inadvertent, harmless, and accidental transactions with designated persons can subject a party to significant civil penalties, because OFAC-administered sanctions are considered strict liability offenses. Persons who willfully violate OFAC-administered terrorism sanctions may also face lengthy prison sentences. Civil penalties can reach the greater of $377,700 per violation or twice the value of the underlying transaction; willful violations can result in criminal fines up to $1,000,000 and up to 20 years in prison.

    Secondary sanctions against foreign persons. Under EO 13224 as amended by EO 13886, non-U.S. persons who engage in prohibited transactions or dealings subject to U.S. jurisdiction with SDGTs may be subject to civil or criminal penalties, and may also risk being sanctioned by OFAC. Foreign financial institutions may also be subject to correspondent and payable-through account sanctions if they knowingly facilitate significant transactions for or on behalf of an SDGT.

    Material support criminal statutes. The SDGT designation activates 18 U.S.C. §§ 2339A/B, which criminalize the provision of material support to designated groups. This is a separate criminal regime from OFAC’s civil/administrative authority. OFAC has authority to issue general and specific licenses that can enable humanitarian, peacebuilding, and other exemptions under the SDGT and other sanctions regimes — but no comparable licensing authority exists under the material support statutes.

    Anti-Terrorism Act civil litigation exposure. An FTO/SDGT designation increases the risk of civil terrorism suits, governmental investigation, and administrative and criminal actions under the ATA (Anti-Terrorism Act), as amended by JASTA.

    BIS export controls. The Bureau of Industry and Security requires a license for the export of any item to a person designated as an SDGT and does not provide a license exception.

    Enhanced national security apparatus. The fact of designation can enable the government to bring to bear additional national security authorities, including counterterrorism authorities and resources. That additional attention will likely reach and reveal activities by individuals and entities associated (wittingly or unwittingly) with newly designated parties, which will in turn expose them to risk of further investigation.

    Reputational stigma and contagion risk. Designation imposes a severe reputational stigma — the stamp of a government label that an organization or individual is a terrorist. An entity that materially assists or supports a designated SDGT may itself be subject to designation under EO 13224.

    Adding CT to an Iran Sanctions Designation: Marginal Impact

    For a party already designated under Iran sanctions authorities — say, under EO 13846, EO 13902, the IFSR, or the ITSR — much of the damage from blocking and secondary sanctions has already been done. The Iran program is one of OFAC’s most comprehensive, and it already brings:

    • Full U.S. person blocking prohibitions covering not just the designated person but the entire Iranian financial and energy sector
    • Robust statutory secondary sanctions under CISADA, IFCA, CAATSA, and other Iran-specific statutes, which threaten non-U.S. persons’ access to the U.S. financial system for conduct with no U.S. nexus — this goes significantly further than EO 13224’s secondary sanctions language
    • Sector-wide prohibitions, not just entity-specific blocking, covering Iranian banking, energy, shipping, and other industries
    • Extension of compliance obligations to foreign subsidiaries of U.S. persons under 31 CFR § 560.215 — a feature not universally present in other OFAC programs

    When the SDGT tag is layered on top, the person is now subject to the targeted CT sanctions program in addition to the country-specific Iran program. The incremental additions are real but relatively narrow:

    What CT meaningfully adds to an Iran designation:

    • Activation of the material support criminal statutes (18 U.S.C. §§ 2339A/B), which the Iran program doesn’t trigger on its own
    • ATA/JASTA civil lawsuit exposure against parties who dealt with the designee
    • BIS no-license-exception rule specifically tied to SDGT status
    • The “terrorist” label itself, which carries political and diplomatic weight beyond the sanctions restrictions — SDGT is a qualitative statement about the designee’s character that Iran sanctions, focused on national security and foreign policy toward a country, do not necessarily make

    What CT does not meaningfully add to an Iran designation:

    • The secondary sanctions exposure for foreign persons is already robust under Iran-specific statutes, in many cases more extensive than what flows from EO 13224/13886 alone
    • The blocking mechanism is already fully in place
    • The reputational harm is already substantial — though the “terrorist” label does add a specific stigma

    In short: for an Iran designee, the SDGT overlay is a real upgrade in terms of criminal law exposure (material support) and civil litigation risk (ATA), but it adds relatively little on the financial sanctions and secondary sanctions dimensions, where Iran already does heavy lifting.

    Adding CT to a Counter-Narcotics Designation: Marginal Impact

    The counter-narcotics baseline is structurally thinner. The Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act and the resulting Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Sanctions Regulations derive directly from a statute rather than an executive order — in several respects quirky vis-à-vis the typical IEEPA-based blocking regulation. The Kingpin Act establishes blocking and U.S. person prohibitions against the designee, but it is fundamentally a targeted blocking program without the country-level architecture or the statutory secondary sanctions depth of the Iran program.

    Notably, SDN entries for Kingpin/narcotics designees ([SDNTK]) do not carry the “Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224” language that SDGT entries do — that language is specific to the CT designation. Narcotics entries also do not carry the “Subject to Secondary Sanctions” language that Iran-program entries carry. This is an important baseline difference.

    When the SDGT tag is added to a counter-narcotics designee, the incremental impact is substantially larger than in the Iran case:

    What CT meaningfully adds to a narcotics designation:

    • Secondary sanctions against foreign persons — this is a major addition. Non-U.S. persons who engage in prohibited transactions with SDGTs may be subject to civil or criminal penalties, and may also risk being sanctioned by OFAC. Foreign financial institutions may also be subject to correspondent and payable-through account sanctions if they knowingly facilitate significant transactions for or on behalf of an SDGT. The Kingpin Act doesn’t carry this lever; CT does.
    • Material support criminal statutes — same as in the Iran case, but even more consequential here because the narcotics program had no equivalent criminal overlay
    • ATA/JASTA civil litigation exposure — entirely new for a narcotics designee; the ATA is terrorism-specific
    • BIS no-license-exception export rule — tied specifically to SDGT status
    • The “terrorist” label and its political/diplomatic weight, which transforms the foreign policy signal from “drug trafficker” to “terrorist” — a much more significant diplomatic instrument with implications for how allied governments treat the designee
    • Contagion risk under CT authority — the 50% rule could increase the number of individuals and entities that are blocked pursuant to CT designations, even if not listed on the SDN list themselves. While this rule applies to narcotics too, the CT framework’s broad “associated with” nexus for new designations is more expansive
    • Heightened compliance scrutiny — this results in increased legal and operational risks for human rights and social services organizations and nonprofits who must interact with these groups. The CT framework activates compliance concerns in sectors that may be comfortable doing business with parties adjacent to narcotics trafficking (e.g., banks in certain jurisdictions) but that draw a hard line at terrorism

    What CT does not add to a narcotics designation:

    • The core blocking mechanism is already present under the Kingpin Act
    • The “50% rule” already applies under the narcotics program

    The Bottom Line Comparison

    DimensionCT added to IranCT added to Narcotics
    Asset blockingAlready covered; no material changeAlready covered; no material change
    U.S. person prohibitionsAlready coveredAlready covered
    Secondary sanctions on foreign personsMarginal addition — Iran statutes already more powerfulMajor addition — not present under Kingpin
    Foreign subsidiary compliance extensionAlready covered under Iran (31 CFR § 560.215)Not applicable; no change
    Material support criminal statutesMeaningful addition — Iran doesn’t trigger theseMajor addition — entirely new legal exposure
    ATA/JASTA civil suitsMeaningful additionMajor addition — entirely new
    BIS export controls (no license exception)Meaningful additionMajor addition
    “Terrorist” label / diplomatic signalAdds specificity to what Iran designation impliesQualitative transformation of the designation’s meaning
    National security apparatus activationMeaningful additionMajor addition

    The pattern is clear: adding CT to a narcotics designation is a much larger step than adding it to an Iran designation. Iran sanctions already impose much of what CT brings on the financial side, and in some respects (sector-wide prohibitions, statutory secondary sanctions depth, foreign subsidiary obligations) Iran goes further than CT ever could on its own. What CT adds to Iran is primarily in the criminal law and civil litigation domains — significant, but incremental.

    For a narcotics designee, by contrast, the CT overlay brings an entirely new dimension of secondary sanctions exposure, a new criminal regime, and a qualitative recharacterization that changes how every third party — governments, financial institutions, NGOs, businesses — has to think about the person.

    The current administration’s expansion of CT authorities to encompass transnational criminal organizations traditionally dealt with through counter-narcotics frameworks is itself a reflection of this dynamic — layering CT on top of narcotics designations is a meaningful escalation tool precisely because it adds so much that the narcotics program lacks.

    Sources

    1. OFAC — Counter Terrorism Sanctions FAQ: ofac.treasury.gov/faqs/topic/2396
    2. OFAC — Counter Terrorism Sanctions program page: ofac.treasury.gov/sanctions-programs-and-country-information/counter-terrorism-sanctions
    3. OFAC — Counter Narcotics Trafficking Sanctions program page: ofac.treasury.gov/sanctions-programs-and-country-information/counter-narcotics-trafficking-sanctions
    4. OFAC — Basic Information FAQ: ofac.treasury.gov/faqs/topic/1501
    5. eCFR, 31 CFR Part 598: ecfr.gov
    6. State Department — EO 13224 overview: state.gov
    7. ICNL — Federal Terrorism Law Explainer: icnl.org
    8. ACLU — SDGT Designation Briefer: assets.aclu.org
    9. Baker Botts — FTO/SDGT Compliance Alert (Jan. 2025): bakerbotts.com
    10. Jones Day — Cartel FTO/SDGT Risk Alert (Feb. 2025): jonesday.com
    11. WilmerHale — EO 14157 Implications (Apr. 2025): wilmerhale.com
    12. WilmerHale — Understanding Different Terrorism Designations (Oct. 2025): wilmerhale.com
    13. Carter Ledyard & Milburn — OFAC SDN List Overview: clm.com
    14. Charity & Security Network — Cartel SDGT Alert (Apr. 2025): charityandsecurity.org
    15. Global Investigations Review — U.S. Sanctions Perspective (2026 ed.): globalinvestigationsreview.com
    16. Turbofac — FNKDA annotations: sanctions.org
    17. Federal Register — Narcotics Sanctions Regulations amendment (May 2021): federalregister.gov

    Mr. Sanctions’ Note: I made the conscious decision not to restate this in plain language for non-experts. I knew this was kind of intricate and really for more experienced and expert practitioners. If you’d like a plain language version of this, let me know – happy to put Claude to work.

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  • May 12, 2026: Sanctions-Adjacent – State Department flexes its visa restrictions powers… not once, but twice!

    Once – related to fentanyl trafficking:

    Announcing Steps to Impose Visa Restrictions on Associates of Illicit Fentanyl Traffickers – United States Department of StateDownload

    and two – related to South Sudan:

    Announcement of Targeted Visa Restrictions for Individuals Involved in Undermining Peace in South Sudan – United States Department of StateDownload

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  • May 8, 2026: OFAC updates counter-terror and counter-narcotics designations, removes from Russia program

    Counter Terrorism and Counter Narcotics Designation Update, Russia-related Designation Removal

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Targets Cartel-Linked Timeshare Resort Defrauding U.S. Citizens

    Amendments:

    The following changes have been made to OFAC’s SDN List:

    • OFAC Programs:
      • [SDGT]  Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594
      • [ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059]  Executive Order 14059

    KOVAY GARDENS

    • AKA:
      • MARINA OASIS BEACHFRONT RESORT
      • NAVIRA VILLAS & RESIDENCES
      • NAVIRA VILLAS AND RESIDENCES
      • VALLARTA GARDENS
    • Address: La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Nayarit, Mexico
    • Website: https://kovaygardens.com
    • alt. Website: https://navira.com.mx
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 2002
    • Organization Type: Short term accommodation activities
    • Linked To: CARTEL DE JALISCO NUEVA GENERACION

    Supplemental Information: The OFAC update text notes that Kovay Gardens is now operating under two new aliases: “Navira Villas & Residences” (with associated website navira.com.mx) and “Marina Oasis Beachfront Resort.” Per the linked Treasury press release dated February 19, 2026, Kovay Gardens is a CJNG-controlled timeshare resort located in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Nayarit, on the Bahia de Banderas, northwest of Puerto Vallarta. It was founded over 20 years ago by Carlos Humberto Rivera Miramontes under its original name, Vallarta Gardens, and is sanctioned pursuant to E.O. 14059 and E.O. 13224 for being directed by CJNG. The resort employs deceptive tactics — including robocalls and false promises about rental income — and shares its customer database with CJNG-controlled call centers to facilitate timeshare resale, re-rent, and re-victimization fraud schemes targeting U.S. persons.

    List of Changes:

    • Field Name: AKA
      • Added: MARINA OASIS BEACHFRONT RESORT
      • Added: NAVIRA VILLAS & RESIDENCES
      • Added: NAVIRA VILLAS AND RESIDENCES
    • Field Name: alt. Website

    Delistings:

    The following deletions have been made to OFAC’s SDN List:

    • OFAC Programs:
      • [UKRAINE-EO13662]  Executive Order 13662
      • [RUSSIA-EO14024]  Executive Order 14024

    ASTRA (XVJT7) Chemical/Oil Tanker Vietnam flag; Secondary sanctions risk: See Section 11 of Executive Order 14024.; alt. Secondary sanctions risk: Ukraine-/Russia-Related Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR 589.201 and/or 589.209; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 9273387; MMSI 574005470 (vessel) (Linked To: SAO VIET PETROL TRANSPORTATION COMPANY LIMITED).

    Note: Interestingly, OFAC included the following helpful intro paragraph in its Recent Actions item… maybe they’ve been reading this old blog…

    The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has updated the identifiers for a Mexican timeshare resort engaged in fraud on behalf of the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG). On February 19, 2026, OFAC designated Kovay Gardens pursuant to E.O. 14059 and pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for being owned, controlled, or directed by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, CJNG. Kovay Gardens is now using the following aliases: Navira Villas & Residences and Marina Oasis Beachfront Resort. Click here for more information about timeshare fraud and victim resources.

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  • OFAC Sanctions-palooza, Part 1: the Designations

    Counter Terrorism, Counter Narcotics, and Cyber-related Designations; Issuance of Cyber-related General License

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Sanctions Global Illicit Drug Supply Chain Supporting the Sinaloa Cartel

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Sanctions Cambodian Senator Kok An and Scam Center Network Defrauding Americans

    State Press Release: Reward Offer of Up to $4 Million for Information Leading to Arrest of Chinese Scam Center Money Launderer

    State Press Release: Reward Offer of Up to $10 Million for Information Leading to Financial Disruption of Tai Chang Scam Centers in Burma

    State Press Release: Imposing Sanctions on Online Scam Centers in Southeast Asia

    State Press Release: Countering a Transnational Criminal Network Fueling America’s Illicit Fentanyl Crisis

    State Press Release: Protecting American Children Online

    State Press Release: Disrupting Procurement Networks Supporting Iran’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and Ballistic Missile Programs and Mahan Air

    Note: OFAC also issued Cyber-related General License 2, “Authorizing Certain Transactions Involving Anco Water Supply Co. Ltd. Related to the Treatment and Distribution of Drinking Water.”

    Additions:

    The following individuals have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: CYBER4   Executive Order 13694; Executive Order 13757; Executive Order 14144; Executive Order 14306 — Cyber-Related Sanctions

    AIK, Paung

    • AKA: EK, Pong
    • Address: Phum 13, Boeng Kak Pir, Tuol Kouk, Phnom Penh 12152, Cambodia
    • DOB: 03 Oct 1970
    • POB: Burma
    • Nationality: Cambodia
    • Gender: Male
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Aik Paung is a Burmese-born individual who obtained Cambodian citizenship while investing in Cambodia’s scam industry. He is a former manager of Nan Tian International Hotel Co Ltd (a.k.a. Nan Hai) and, together with Sai Aung Linn, co-owns Xihu Resort Hotel Co Ltd and Heng Feng Group Co Ltd. Gambling companies operating within Xihu have been associated with money laundering linked to organized crime and human trafficking for cyber scams. Properties connected to these companies have reportedly also been the sites of unlawful detentions, beatings, and deaths.

    KOK, An

    • Address: 19 Group 62 Street 217, Veal Vong Quarter, Makara District, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    • DOB: 07 Jul 1954
    • POB: Koh Kong, Cambodia
    • Nationality: Cambodia
    • Gender: Male
    • Passport: N00307450 (Cambodia) expires 15 Sep 2025
    • National ID No.: 010283555 (Cambodia)
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Kok An is a Cambodian senator and businessman who owns numerous companies and properties throughout Cambodia that house scam centers, through which his network has stolen millions of dollars from U.S. victims operating under the protection of his political connections. His flagship hospitality company, Crown Resorts, owns casinos, resorts, and other buildings in Poipet, Sihanoukville, Bavet, Pailin, and other Cambodian cities that have been converted into compounds from which criminal organizations conduct digital asset investment fraud and other scams. These fraudsters use the lure of friendship or romance to coax vulnerable Americans into transferring their savings in the form of digital assets to fake investment platforms, only to steal the funds outright. In some cases, individuals perpetrating the scams are themselves victims of human trafficking, forced to commit unlawful acts under threat of violence, including physical abuse; scam managers impose quotas and subject those who fail to meet them to physical violence. Kok An collects rental income from compound occupants and provides uniformed security guards through his conglomerate Anco Brothers Co Ltd, which also holds casino licenses for the properties. Nearly all major scam compounds in Cambodia are connected to casinos, which serve to launder scam proceeds. This designation was taken in coordination with the Scam Center Strike Force, an initiative of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, DOJ Criminal Division, FBI, and U.S. Secret Service.

    LUO, Hong

    • Address: 22, St. 1007, Phnom Penh Thmei, Sensok, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    • DOB: 13 Nov 1977
    • POB: China
    • Nationality: Cambodia
    • Gender: Male
    • Passport: N01460820 (Cambodia) expires 26 Nov 2028
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Luo Hong founded Brilliancy Sihanoukville Investment and Development Co Ltd (a.k.a. Bolai), which not only coerces human trafficking victims to target Americans with digital asset investment fraud scams but also operates social media channels and gambling websites enabling criminals to launder money and move funds across borders. He obtained Cambodian citizenship after making large investments in the country, including through Huan Hai Bo Lai International Investment Co Ltd and SSDD Construction Material Co Ltd. USSS investigations identified U.S.-based co-conspirators who received transfers from American victims under false investment promises and then sent the money directly to bank accounts in Cambodia, including at least $1.3 million to accounts belonging to Luo Hong. Eight U.S.-based co-conspirators pleaded guilty to participating in this scheme, including Daren Li.

    RITHY, Raksmei

    • AKA:
      • ORIYA, Ken
      • XIE, Liguang
    • Address: Phu, 13, Boeng Kak Pir, Tuol Kouk, Phnom Penh 12152, Cambodia
    • DOB: 01 Mar 1983
    • Nationality: Cambodia
    • Gender: Male
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Rithy Raksmei is a close associate of Kok An who owns several companies managing scam compounds. He is the head of K99 Culture and Media Co Ltd (K99 Group), a casino operator with several properties in Cambodia where trafficking victims are forced to scam Americans and others through digital asset investment fraud. Scam operations at K99 Group facilities involve trafficked victims and perpetrators posing as potential romantic interests and convincing targets to send funds to fake digital asset trading platforms. Rithy has used his political connections to expand his business holdings, build more casinos, and avoid legal consequences. His network also supported the development of Xing Tian Di Co Ltd and Nan Tian International Hotel Co Ltd (Nan Hai) in Sihanoukville, both of which have been cited in trafficking victims’ reports as sites of romance scams, Ponzi schemes, attempted theft of digital asset wallets, and other online fraud, as well as unlawful detentions, beatings, and deaths.

    SAI, Aung Linn

    • AKA: SAI, Aung Lin
    • Address: Phum 13, Boeng Kak Pir, Tuol Kouk, Phnom Penh 12152, Cambodia
    • DOB: 19 Mar 1974
    • POB: Burma
    • Nationality: Cambodia
    • Gender: Male
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Sai Aung Linn is a Burmese-born individual who obtained Cambodian citizenship while investing in Cambodia’s scam industry. Like Aik Paung, he is a former manager of Nan Tian International Hotel Co Ltd (Nan Hai) and submitted the registration for Nan Hai’s casino license. Together with Aik Paung, he co-owns Xihu Resort Hotel Co Ltd and Heng Feng Group Co Ltd. He also controls Heng Feng Cambodia Bank plc, in which he serves as director, shareholder, former chairman, and member of the board risk and audit committees. The bank, whose main property is located at Heng Feng Group’s headquarters, directs customers to collect foreign exchange at Xihu’s casino counter.

    OFAC Program: ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059   Executive Order 14059 — Counter Narcotics Trafficking Sanctions

    ACOSTA HERNANDEZ, Regulo

    • AKA:
      • ACOSTA HERNANDEZ, Regulo Gilberto
      • “Tobolio”
    • Address: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • DOB: 21 Jul 1988
    • POB: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • C.U.R.P.: AOHR880721HSLCRG06 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Regulo Acosta Hernandez is a Sinaloa, Mexico-based fentanyl and cocaine supplier who has utilized money launderers within the United States to receive drug payments. He is the husband of designated co-conspirator Karina Guadalupe Carrillo Torres, and together they own Desarrollos Cartok S.A. de C.V. and Comercializadora Grupo Carhern S.A. de C.V. Acosta reportedly has familial connections to the Chapitos faction of the Sinaloa Cartel. He was arrested in Mexico in March 2026 for drug-related offenses.

    BARRIENTOS CAMAZ, Jaime Augusto

    • Address: Villa Canales, Guatemala
    • DOB: 07 Mar 1994
    • POB: Guatemala
    • Nationality: Guatemala
    • Gender: Male
    • NIT #: 87457121 (Guatemala)
    • License: 2415491320101 (Guatemala)
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Jaime Augusto Barrientos Camaz is a Guatemala-based broker of fentanyl precursor chemicals who sources supply from various India-based companies, including Agrat Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals and SR Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals. Utilizing his Guatemala City-based business J and C Import, Barrientos was the end recipient of N-Boc-4-Piperidone totaling 116 kilograms over a two-month period.

    CARRILLO TORRES, Karina Guadalupe

    • AKA: “Dora”
    • Address: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • DOB: 28 Apr 1991
    • POB: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Female
    • C.U.R.P.: CATK910428MSLRRR08 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Karina Guadalupe Carrillo Torres is a Sinaloa, Mexico-based broker of fentanyl precursor chemicals who has been linked to multiple seizures of 1-Boc-4-Hydroxypiperidine totaling over 50 kg. She reportedly has familial connections to the Chapitos faction of the Sinaloa Cartel and is the wife of fellow designee Regulo Acosta Hernandez. Together they own Desarrollos Cartok S.A. de C.V. and Comercializadora Grupo Carhern S.A. de C.V. She was arrested in Mexico in March 2026 for drug-related offenses.

    MODI, Yuktakumari Ashishkumar

    • Address: Surat, Gujarat, India
    • DOB: 23 Apr 2000
    • POB: Surat, Gujarat, India
    • Nationality: India
    • Gender: Female
    • Passport: T3861551 (India) expires 08 Jul 2029
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Yuktakumari Ashishkumar Modi is a salesperson who works alongside Satishkumar Hareshbhai Sutaria to facilitate sales and shipments of fentanyl precursor chemicals — including N-Boc-4-Piperidone — to Mexico and Guatemala, mislabeled as “safe chemicals.” She has used SR Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals and Agrat Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals to conduct these transactions. She was arrested in March 2025 by Indian authorities for this activity.

    RAMIREZ TORRES, Jose de Jesus

    • Address: Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
    • DOB: 30 Nov 1977
    • POB: Jalisco, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • C.U.R.P.: RATJ771130HJCMRS09 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Jose de Jesus Ramirez Torres is a Jalisco, Mexico-based importer who uses his companies — including Corporativo y Enlace Ram S.A. de C.V., Enlace Forwarding Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., and Cargo Global 3PS S. de R.L. de C.V. — to import methamphetamine precursor chemicals to Mexico. His corporate network also includes the Florida-based entity E-Ram Group LLC.

    RUGERIO ARRIAGA, Maria Viridiana

    • Address: Mexico
    • DOB: 17 Nov 1988
    • POB: Guanajuato, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Female
    • C.U.R.P.: RUAV881117MGTGRR03 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Maria Viridiana Rugerio Arriaga is a Mexico-based broker for chemical precursors who purchases chemicals from India and sells them to drug producers to synthesize into fentanyl and methamphetamine, including N-Boc-4-Piperidone. She owns the Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico-based company Quimica Soluciones y Logistica Integral Bajio, S.A. de C.V.

    SUTARIA, Satishkumar Hareshbhai

    • Address: Surat, Gujarat, India
    • DOB: 07 Mar 1989
    • POB: Ghonghali, India
    • Nationality: India
    • Gender: Male
    • Passport: T2342443 (India) expires 03 Mar 2029
    • Party Type: Individual

    Supplemental Information: Satishkumar Hareshbhai Sutaria is an India-based pharmaceutical chemicals supplier who trades in fentanyl precursors for use in illicit fentanyl production. Together with salesperson Yuktakumari Ashishkumar Modi, Sutaria facilitates sales and shipments of precursors — including N-Boc-4-Piperidone — to Mexico and Guatemala, mislabeling them as “safe chemicals.” He has used SR Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals and Agrat Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals to conduct these transactions. He was arrested in March 2025 by Indian authorities for this activity. Per U.S. Department of Justice estimates, one kilogram of N-Boc-4-Piperidone yields around 1.83 kilograms of fentanyl, a volume with the potential to yield approximately 900,000 lethal doses.

    • OFAC Programs:
      • SDGT   Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594 — Counter Terrorism Sanctions
      • ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059   Executive Order 14059 — Counter Narcotics Trafficking Sanctions

    FELIX HERAS, Ramiro Baltazar

    • AKA: “El Guero Reyna”
    • Address: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • DOB: 28 Oct 1989
    • POB: Sinaloa, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: FEHR891028HSLLRM09 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: SINALOA CARTEL

    Supplemental Information: Ramiro Baltazar Felix Heras is a high-ranking member of the Los Mayos faction of the Sinaloa Cartel who is involved in smuggling fentanyl and methamphetamines into the United States. The Sinaloa Cartel is a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization and one of the largest producers of fentanyl and other illicit drugs bound for the United States.

    REYNOSO JIMENEZ, Alejandro

    • Address: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
    • DOB: 17 Nov 1975
    • POB: Jalisco, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: REJA751117HJCYML08 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: SINALOA CARTEL

    Supplemental Information: Alejandro Reynoso Jimenez is a chemist and operator of clandestine drug laboratories in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, who obtained and utilized precursor chemicals for the production of fentanyl for the Sinaloa Cartel — specifically for the Los Chapitos faction. He used his pharmacy Botanica 2000 in Guadalajara to produce fentanyl-laced pills for shipment to the United States. He was arrested in Madrid, Spain in November 2025.

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: CYBER4   Executive Order 13694; Executive Order 13757; Executive Order 14144; Executive Order 14306 — Cyber-Related Sanctions

    855 INVESTMENT CORPORATION

    • Address: 105, 200, Boeng Reang, Doun Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 25 Jan 2013
    • Organization Type: Manufacture of computers and peripheral equipment
    • Tax ID No.: K003-104012978 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: Co 0107KH/2013 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00015076 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: KOK, An

    Supplemental Information: 855 Investment Corporation is one of several companies of which Kok An is chairman, designated for being owned or controlled by Kok An pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    A WEE TRADING CO LTD

    • Address: Veal Vong, Prampi Makara, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 21 Oct 2008
    • Organization Type: Non-specialized wholesale trade
    • Tax ID No.: K004-100161391 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: Co 12823KH/2008 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00027521 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: KOK, An

    Supplemental Information: A Wee Trading Co Ltd is one of several companies of which Kok An is chairman, designated for being owned or controlled by Kok An pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    ANCO BROTHERS CO LTD

    • Address: No. 20, Street 217, Sang Kat Veal Vong, Khan 7 Makara, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 12 Aug 1993
    • Organization Type: Wholesale of food, beverages and tobacco
    • Tax ID No.: L001-100048722 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: Co 0259KH/1993 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00027801 (Cambodia)

    Supplemental Information: Anco Brothers Co Ltd is Kok An’s business conglomerate. It provides services and employees to scam compounds — including uniformed security guards — and holds the casino licenses for the properties operated by Crown Resorts. Anco Brothers is designated for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for cyber-enabled activities pursuant to E.O. 13694, as amended.

    ANCO SPECIALIZED BANK LTD

    • Address: Veal Vong, Prampi Makara, Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Poipet, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 05 Jan 2006
    • Target Type: Financial Institution
    • Tax ID No.: L001-100071023 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: Co 8323KH/2006 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00013301 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: KOK, An

    Supplemental Information: Anco Specialized Bank Ltd is one of several companies of which Kok An is chairman, designated for being owned or controlled by Kok An pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    ANCO WATER SUPPLY CO LTD

    • Address: Veal Vong, Prampi Makara, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 29 Feb 2008
    • Tax ID No.: K004-100142680 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: Co 11652KH/2008 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00030246 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: KOK, An

    Supplemental Information: Anco Water Supply Co Ltd is one of several companies of which Kok An is chairman, designated for being owned or controlled by Kok An pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended. OFAC has issued Cyber-related General License 2 separately authorizing certain transactions involving Anco Water Supply Co. Ltd. that are related to the treatment and distribution of drinking water.

    AURUM CO LTD

    • Address: Phum 6, Sangkat Buon, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk 18204, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 05 Jul 2019
    • Organization Type: Real estate activities on a fee or contract basis
    • Registration Number: 00044550 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: RITHY, Raksmei

    Supplemental Information: Aurum Co Ltd is one of several companies of which Rithy Raksmei is a director, designated for being owned or controlled by Rithy pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    BRILLIANCY SIHANOUKVILLE INVESTMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CO LTD (Chinese Simplified: 铂莱娱乐城)

    • AKA:
      • BOLAI CASINO
      • BOLAI ENTERTAINMENT CITY
      • BOLAI HOTEL AND CASINO
      • BOLAI INTERNATIONAL HOTEL (Chinese Simplified: 铂莱国际酒店)
      • BRILLIANCY CASINO
      • BRILLIANCY SIHANOUKVILLE INVESTMENT & DEVELOPMENT CO LTD
      • PLATINUM LAI INTERNATIONAL GROUP
      • PLATINUM LAI INTERNATIONAL HOTEL
    • Address: Phum 4, Sangkat Buon, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk 18204, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 31 Jul 2018
    • Organization Type: Short term accommodation activities
    • Tax ID No.: L001-901804427 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00035352 (Cambodia)

    Supplemental Information: Brilliancy Sihanoukville Investment and Development Co Ltd (Bolai), founded by fellow designee Luo Hong, coerces human trafficking victims to target Americans with digital asset investment fraud scams and also operates social media channels and gambling websites enabling criminals to launder money and move funds across borders. Bolai is designated for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for cyber-enabled activities pursuant to E.O. 13694, as amended.

    CROWN RESORTS CO LTD

    • AKA:
      • CROWN CASINO BAVET
      • CROWN CASINO CHREY THUM
      • CROWN CASINO KENTING
      • CROWN CASINO PAILIN
      • CROWN CASINO PRINCESS
      • DREAMWORLD CASINO
      • GENTING CROWN CASINO
      • HI-SO HOTEL
      • KENTING SKY HOTEL
      • PRINCESS CROWN CASINO
      • “GOLDEN CROWN CASINO”
      • “KING CASINO”
    • Address: National Road No. 5, Kbal Spean Village, Sangkat Poipet, Poipet City, Banteay Meanchey, Cambodia; Bavet, Cambodia; Chrey Thum, Cambodia; Pailin, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 30 Dec 2003
    • Business Registration Number: Inv 838/03P (Cambodia)

    Supplemental Information: Crown Resorts Co Ltd is Kok An’s flagship hospitality company, owning casinos, resorts, and other buildings in Poipet, Sihanoukville, Bavet, Pailin, and other Cambodian cities that have been converted into compounds from which criminal organizations conduct digital asset investment fraud and other scams. Human trafficking victims at these facilities have reported being exploited by fraudsters based at the properties and forced to steal money from victims — including Americans — to repay them for the costs of being abducted. Crown Resorts is designated for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for cyber-enabled activities pursuant to E.O. 13694, as amended.

    FUNG YUET RESORT HOTEL CO LTD

    • Address: Phum 1, Sangkat Pir, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk 18202, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 23 May 2019
    • Organization Type: Short term accommodation activities
    • Tax ID No.: B117-901906734 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00042795 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: SAI, Aung Linn

    Supplemental Information: Fung Yuet Resort Hotel Co Ltd is designated for being owned or controlled by Sai Aung Linn pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended. Sai Aung Linn is the chairman of this company.

    HENG FENG CAMBODIA BANK PLC

    • Address: Slot No. 342, Preah Monivong Boulevard, Corner of Street No. 288, Phum 4, Sangkat Boeng Keng Kang Ti Muoy, Khan Boeng Keng Kang, Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Slot No. 2, National Assembly Street, Sangkat Tonle Basak, Khan Chamkar Mon, Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Ekarach Street, Phum 3, Sangkat 4, Krong Preah Sihanouk, Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia
    • SWIFT/BIC: HEFBKHPP
    • Website: hfcommercialbank.com
    • Organization Established Date: 10 May 2022
    • Target Type: Financial Institution
    • Tax ID No.: L001-902202251 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: 2000153395 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00063085 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: SAI, Aung Linn

    Supplemental Information: Heng Feng Cambodia Bank plc is controlled by Sai Aung Linn, who serves as director, shareholder, former chairman, and member of the board risk and audit committees. The bank’s main property is located at Heng Feng Group’s headquarters and directs customers to collect foreign exchange at Xihu’s casino counter, reflecting the intertwined nature of the scam and money-laundering infrastructure. The bank is designated for being owned or controlled by Sai Aung Linn pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    HENG FENG GROUP CO LTD

    • Address: House No. 342, 15th floor, Monivong Boulevard, corner of Street No. 288, Village 4, Sangkat Boeung Keng Kang 1, Khan Boeung Keng Kang, Phnom Penh 12302, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 19 Jul 2022
    • Organization Type: Real estate activities with own or leased property
    • Tax ID No.: K002-902203362 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: 1000173976 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00063943 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To:
      • AIK, Paung
      • SAI, Aung Linn

    Supplemental Information: Heng Feng Group Co Ltd is a property management company located in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, co-owned by Aik Paung and Sai Aung Linn. It is designated for being owned or controlled by Aik Paung and Sai Aung Linn pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    HUAN HAI BO LAI INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT CO LTD

    • AKA: SEA RING PLATINUM LAI INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT COMPANY
    • Address: Phum 4, Sangkat Buon, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 03 Jan 2022
    • Organization Type: Short term accommodation activities
    • Tax ID No.: L001-902200028 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: 1000114089 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00061169 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: LUO, Hong

    Supplemental Information: Huan Hai Bo Lai International Investment Co Ltd is a real estate investment firm that has supported Bolai’s expansion. It is designated for being owned or controlled by Luo Hong pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    K99 CULTURE AND MEDIA CO LTD

    • AKA:
      • K99 CULTURE & MEDIA CO LTD
      • K99 GROUP
    • Address: Phum 1, Sangkat Bei, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk 18203, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 19 Nov 2019
    • Organization Type: Real estate activities on a fee or contract basis
    • Registration Number: 00049313 (Cambodia)

    Supplemental Information: K99 Culture and Media Co Ltd (K99 Group) is a casino operator owned by Rithy Raksmei with several properties in Cambodia where trafficking victims are forced to scam Americans and others. Reports from individuals held at K99 Group facilities indicate that criminal organizations operate digital asset investment fraud schemes from those locations, with scams involving trafficking victims posing as potential romantic interests and convincing targets to send funds to fake digital asset trading platforms. K99 Group is designated for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for cyber-enabled activities pursuant to E.O. 13694, as amended.

    KAISSA TRAVEL CO LTD

    • Address: Phum 6, Sangkat Buon, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk 18204, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 29 Feb 2024
    • Organization Type: Tour operator activities
    • Business Registration Number: 1000367454 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00071793 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: RITHY, Raksmei

    Supplemental Information: Kaissa Travel Co Ltd is one of several companies of which Rithy Raksmei is a director, designated for being owned or controlled by Rithy pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    KEP HYDROPOWER SVTK AND MSRC CO LTD

    • AKA: KEP HYDROPOWER SVTK & MSRC CO LTD
    • Address: Kaoh Pao, Bak Khlang, Mondol Seima, Koh Kong 9351, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 26 Apr 2024
    • Organization Type: Construction of utility projects
    • Business Registration Number: 1000383023 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00072609 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: KOK, An

    Supplemental Information: Kep Hydropower SVTK and MSRC Co Ltd is one of several companies of which Kok An is chairman, designated for being owned or controlled by Kok An pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    KHEMREAH CO LTD

    • AKA: KHEMARAK HOTEL
    • Address: Phum 6, Sangkat Buon, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk 18204, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 16 Mar 2023
    • Organization Type: Short term accommodation activities
    • Tax ID No.: L001-902301242 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: 1000252192 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00067243 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: RITHY, Raksmei

    Supplemental Information: Khemreah Co Ltd is one of several companies of which Rithy Raksmei is a director, designated for being owned or controlled by Rithy pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    KHMER ELECTRICAL POWER CO LTD

    • Address: Veal Vong, Prampi Makara, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 06 Sep 2004
    • Tax ID No.: L001-100082238 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: Inv 876KH/2004 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00028498 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: KOK, An

    Supplemental Information: Khmer Electrical Power Co Ltd is one of several companies of which Kok An is chairman, designated for being owned or controlled by Kok An pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    MEKONG POTABLE WATER CONSTRUCTION IMPORT EXPORT CO LTD

    • AKA: MEPOWACIMEX
    • Address: Chrouy Ampil, Kbal Kaoh, Kien Svay, Kandal 8555, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 18 Feb 1998
    • Tax ID No.: K007-150000553 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: Co 3750KH/1998 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00050301 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: KOK, An

    Supplemental Information: Mekong Potable Water Construction Import Export Co Ltd is one of several companies of which Kok An is chairman, designated for being owned or controlled by Kok An pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    NAN TIAN INTERNATIONAL HOTEL CO LTD

    • AKA:
      • NAN HAI INTERNATIONAL HOTEL CO LTD
      • NAN HAI REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT CO LTD
    • Address: Sangkat Bei, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 21 Apr 2016
    • Organization Type: Real estate activities with own or leased property
    • Tax ID No.: B117-901636918 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00010451 (Cambodia)

    Supplemental Information: Nan Tian International Hotel Co Ltd (a.k.a. Nan Hai) has housed scam workers since at least 2019 and also provides casino infrastructure to K99 Group. Its property has reportedly been a site of unlawful detentions, beatings, and deaths. Aik Paung and Sai Aung Linn are former managers of Nan Hai, and Sai Aung Linn submitted the registration for Nan Hai’s casino license. Nan Hai is designated for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for cyber-enabled activities pursuant to E.O. 13694, as amended.

    SSDD CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL CO LTD

    • Address: Phum Boeng Chhuk, Kiloumaetr Lekh Prammuoy, Ruessei Kaev, Phnom Penh 12106, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 30 Jun 2020
    • Organization Type: Wholesale and retail trade
    • Business Registration Number: 1000016811 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00054975 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To: LUO, Hong

    Supplemental Information: SSDD Construction Material Co Ltd is a construction company owned by Luo Hong, designated for being owned or controlled by Luo Hong pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    XIHU RESORT HOTEL CO LTD

    • AKA: XI HU INTERNATIONAL HOTEL CO LTD
    • Address: Phum 1, Sangkat Bei, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk 18203, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 23 Jul 2013
    • Organization Type: Short term accommodation activities
    • Tax ID No.: L001-350003858 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: Inv 2883 KH 2013 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00018382 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To:
      • AIK, Paung
      • SAI, Aung Linn

    Supplemental Information: Xihu Resort Hotel Co Ltd is a Sihanoukville casino co-owned by Aik Paung and Sai Aung Linn that is associated with K99 Group. Gambling companies operating within Xihu have been associated with money laundering linked to organized crime and human trafficking for cyber scams. Xihu’s casino counter also serves as a foreign exchange collection point for Heng Feng Cambodia Bank plc customers. Xihu is designated for being owned or controlled by Aik Paung and Sai Aung Linn pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended.

    XING TIAN DI CO LTD

    • Address: Phum 6, Sangkat Buon, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk 18204, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 26 Jun 2019
    • Organization Type: Real estate activities on a fee or contract basis
    • Tax ID No.: B117-000044138 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00044138 (Cambodia)

    Supplemental Information: Xing Tian Di Co Ltd is controlled by K99 Group and co-located with some of Rithy Raksmei’s other casinos in Sihanoukville. It has been cited in trafficking victims’ reports as a site of romance scams, Ponzi schemes, attempted theft of digital asset wallets, and other online fraud, as well as unlawful detentions, beatings, and deaths. Xing Tian Di is designated for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for cyber-enabled activities pursuant to E.O. 13694, as amended.

    XIONG WEI INVESTMENT CO LTD

    • Address: Chak Angrae Kraom, Mean Chey, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 07 Oct 2020
    • Organization Type: Real estate activities with own or leased property
    • Tax ID No.: L001-902005494 (Cambodia)
    • Business Registration Number: 1000019513 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00055034 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To:
      • AIK, Paung
      • SAI, Aung Linn

    Supplemental Information: Xiong Wei Investment Co Ltd is designated for being owned or controlled by Aik Paung and Sai Aung Linn pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended. Aik Paung and Sai Aung Linn are the sole directors of this company.

    XIONG WEI REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT CO LTD

    • Address: Phum 3, Sangkat Buon, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk 18204, Cambodia
    • Organization Established Date: 19 Apr 2017
    • Organization Type: Real estate activities with own or leased property
    • Tax ID No.: L001-901702580 (Cambodia)
    • Registration Number: 00024881 (Cambodia)
    • Linked To:
      • AIK, Paung
      • SAI, Aung Linn

    Supplemental Information: Xiong Wei Real Estate Development Co Ltd is designated for being owned or controlled by Aik Paung and Sai Aung Linn pursuant to E.O. 13694, as further amended. Aik Paung and Sai Aung Linn are the sole directors of this company.

    OFAC Program: ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059   Executive Order 14059 — Counter Narcotics Trafficking Sanctions

    ADUAEASY S. DE R.L. DE C.V.

    • AKA: LOGISTICALL, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.
    • Address: Zamora, Michoacan, Mexico
    • Organization Established Date: 12 May 2015
    • Organization Type: Transportation and storage
    • Folio Mercantil No.: 18483 (Mexico)

    Supplemental Information: Aduaeasy S. de R.L. de C.V. is a Mexico-based importer of chemicals known to be utilized in methamphetamine production that has received shipments of chemicals from Asia. It is designated for having engaged in, or attempted to engage in, activities or transactions that have materially contributed to, or pose a significant risk of materially contributing to, the international proliferation of illicit drugs or their means of production pursuant to E.O. 14059.

    AGRAT CHEMICALS AND PHARMACEUTICALS

    • Address: Surat, Gujarat, India
    • Organization Established Date: 10 Feb 2023
    • Organization Type: Chemicals and allied products wholesale
    • Tax ID No.: 24ACAFA5723C1Z2 (India)

    Supplemental Information: Agrat Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals is an India-based pharmaceutical chemical company used by Satishkumar Hareshbhai Sutaria and Yuktakumari Ashishkumar Modi to conduct transactions facilitating the sale and shipment of fentanyl precursors, including N-Boc-4-Piperidone, to Mexico and Guatemala. It is also a source from which Guatemala-based broker Jaime Augusto Barrientos Camaz sourced his precursor supply.

    CARGO GLOBAL 3PS, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.

    • Address: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
    • Organization Established Date: 16 Oct 2019
    • Organization Type: Transportation and storage
    • Folio Mercantil No.: N-2019089668 (Mexico)
    • Linked To: RAMIREZ TORRES, Jose de Jesus

    Supplemental Information: Cargo Global 3PS, S. de R.L. de C.V. is one of the Mexico-based entities in Jose de Jesus Ramirez Torres’ corporate network used to import methamphetamine precursor chemicals. It is designated for being owned, controlled, or directed by Ramirez Torres pursuant to E.O. 14059.

    CENTRAL LOGISTICA DE SERVICIOS

    • Address: 7a Avenida A, Zona 13, Colonia Aurora Reina, Guatemala City, Guatemala
    • Website: https://central-logistica-de-servicios.webnode.es
    • Organization Type: Transportation and storage

    Supplemental Information: Central Logistica de Servicios is a Guatemala-based import/export company involved in shipping fentanyl precursors as well as finished fentanyl. It is designated for having engaged in, or attempted to engage in, activities or transactions that have materially contributed to, or pose a significant risk of materially contributing to, the international proliferation of illicit drugs or their means of production pursuant to E.O. 14059.

    COMERCIALIZADORA GRUPO CARHERN S.A. DE C.V.

    • Address: Cajeme, Sonora, Mexico
    • Organization Established Date: 01 Jul 2021
    • Organization Type: Wholesale and retail trade
    • Folio Mercantil No.: N-2021046563 (Mexico)
    • Linked To: CARRILLO TORRES, Karina Guadalupe

    Supplemental Information: Comercializadora Grupo Carhern S.A. de C.V. is co-owned by Karina Guadalupe Carrillo Torres and Regulo Acosta Hernandez. It is designated for being owned, controlled, or directed by Carrillo Torres pursuant to E.O. 14059.

    CORPORATIVO Y ENLACE RAM S.A. DE C.V.

    • Address: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
    • Organization Established Date: 14 Oct 2015
    • Organization Type: Transportation and storage
    • Folio Mercantil No.: 93309 (Mexico)
    • Linked To: RAMIREZ TORRES, Jose de Jesus

    Supplemental Information: Corporativo y Enlace Ram S.A. de C.V. (Enlace Ram) is the primary Mexico-based company used by Jose de Jesus Ramirez Torres to import methamphetamine precursor chemicals. It is designated for being owned, controlled, or directed by Ramirez Torres pursuant to E.O. 14059.

    DESARROLLOS CARTOK S.A. DE C.V.

    • Address: Actopan, Hidalgo, Mexico
    • Organization Established Date: 16 Aug 2022
    • Organization Type: Construction of other civil engineering projects
    • Folio Mercantil No.: N-2022058829 (Mexico)
    • Linked To: CARRILLO TORRES, Karina Guadalupe

    Supplemental Information: Desarrollos Cartok S.A. de C.V. is co-owned by Karina Guadalupe Carrillo Torres and Regulo Acosta Hernandez. It is designated for being owned, controlled, or directed by Carrillo Torres pursuant to E.O. 14059.

    ENLACE FORWARDING MEXICO, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.

    • Address: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
    • Organization Established Date: 05 Oct 2016
    • Organization Type: Transportation and storage
    • Folio Mercantil No.: N-2016037775 (Mexico)
    • Linked To: RAMIREZ TORRES, Jose de Jesus

    Supplemental Information: Enlace Forwarding Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. is one of the Mexico-based entities in Jose de Jesus Ramirez Torres’ corporate network used to import methamphetamine precursor chemicals. It is designated for being owned, controlled, or directed by Ramirez Torres pursuant to E.O. 14059.

    E-RAM GROUP LLC

    • Address: Miami, FL, United States
    • Organization Established Date: 04 Jan 2023
    • Tax ID No.: 384250775 (United States)
    • Linked To: RAMIREZ TORRES, Jose de Jesus

    Supplemental Information: E-Ram Group LLC is a Florida-based entity in Jose de Jesus Ramirez Torres’ corporate network. OFAC identified E-Ram as blocked property, as Ramirez Torres — a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14059 — has an interest in the property.

    J AND C IMPORT

    • AKA:
      • J & C IMPORT JAIME AUGUSTO BARRIENTO
      • “J AND C IMPORTS”
      • “J&C IMPORTS”
    • Address: Villa Canales, Guatemala City, Guatemala
    • Organization Type: Transportation and storage
    • NIT #: 87457121 (Guatemala)

    Supplemental Information: J and C Import is the Guatemala City-based business used by Jaime Augusto Barrientos Camaz to receive fentanyl precursor shipments. Barrientos was the end recipient of N-Boc-4-Piperidone totaling 116 kilograms over a two-month period through this entity. It is designated for having engaged in, or attempted to engage in, activities or transactions that have materially contributed to, or pose a significant risk of materially contributing to, the international proliferation of illicit drugs pursuant to E.O. 14059.

    QUIMICA SOLUCIONES Y LOGISTICA INTEGRAL BAJIO, S.A. DE C.V.

    • Address: Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico
    • Organization Established Date: 20 Mar 2025
    • Organization Type: Chemicals and allied products wholesale
    • Folio Mercantil No.: N-2025021846 (Mexico)
    • Linked To: RUGERIO ARRIAGA, Maria Viridiana

    Supplemental Information: Quimica Soluciones y Logistica Integral Bajio, S.A. de C.V. is owned by Maria Viridiana Rugerio Arriaga and used to broker chemical precursors for synthesis into fentanyl and methamphetamine. It is designated for being owned, controlled, or directed by Rugerio Arriaga pursuant to E.O. 14059.

    REYMA GLOBAL TRADING SA DE CV

    • Address: Mexico City, Mexico
    • R.F.C.: RGT1707058Q9 (Mexico)

    Supplemental Information: Reyma Global Trading SA de CV is a Mexico City, Mexico-based importer that has imported large quantities of chemicals known to be used in the production of methamphetamine for various organizations, including the Sinaloa Cartel. It is designated for having engaged in, or attempted to engage in, activities or transactions that have materially contributed to, or pose a significant risk of materially contributing to, the international proliferation of illicit drugs or their means of production pursuant to E.O. 14059.

    SR CHEMICALS AND PHARMACEUTICALS

    • Address: Surat, Gujarat, India
    • Organization Established Date: 01 Jul 2017
    • Organization Type: Chemicals and allied products wholesale
    • Tax ID No.: 24ACSFS6682G1ZI (India)

    Supplemental Information: SR Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals is an India-based pharmaceutical chemical company used by Satishkumar Hareshbhai Sutaria and Yuktakumari Ashishkumar Modi to conduct transactions facilitating the sale and shipment of fentanyl precursors to Mexico and Guatemala. It is also a source from which Guatemala-based broker Jaime Augusto Barrientos Camaz sourced his precursor supply.

    • OFAC Programs:
      • SDGT   Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594 — Counter Terrorism Sanctions
      • ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059   Executive Order 14059 — Counter Narcotics Trafficking Sanctions

    BOTANICA 2000

    • Address: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 01 Nov 1998
    • Organization Type: Retail sale of pharmaceutical and medical goods, cosmetic and toilet articles in specialized stores
    • Linked To: REYNOSO JIMENEZ, Alejandro

    Supplemental Information: Botanica 2000 is the Guadalajara pharmacy operated by Alejandro Reynoso Jimenez through which he produced fentanyl-laced pills for shipment to the United States on behalf of the Los Chapitos faction of the Sinaloa Cartel. It is designated for being owned, controlled, or directed by Reynoso Jimenez pursuant to E.O. 14059 and E.O. 13224, as amended.

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  • April 20, 2026: Sanctions-adjacent: State moves to round up drug traffickers RCAs (relatives and close associates) [updated]

    Sorry, it’s an acronym we used back in my days at Dow Jones – but it beats spelling it out….

    Announcing Steps to Impose Visa Restrictions on Family Members or Close Personal or Business Associates of Sinaloa Cartel Affiliates 

    PRESS STATEMENT

    MARCO RUBIO, SECRETARY OF STATE

    APRIL 20, 2026

    President Trump is using the full power of the United States to eradicate narco-terrorist cartels operating in our hemisphere.  Today, the Department of State is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on 75 individuals who are family members or close personal or business associates of persons linked to the Sinaloa Cartel sanctioned under Executive Order 14059, Imposing Sanctions on Foreign Persons Involved in the Global Illicit Drug Trade (E.O. 14059).  

    Today’s actions underscore the Trump Administration’s commitment to protecting the American people from the Sinaloa Cartel, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO).  The Sinaloa Cartel smuggles illicit fentanyl, which the President designated as a Weapon of Mass Destruction, and other deadly drugs that harm American communities.  Imposing visa restrictions on drug traffickers, their family members, and close personal and business associates will not only prevent their entry into our nation, but also serve as a deterrent to continued illicit activities.

    Update: Claude tells me the names of these persons, who they’re associated with, and how, is not yet public. I will keep an eye out for it, produce the list for you, and see whether or not there is any known involvement in the cartel’s activities – or if it’s just guilt by association.

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  • April 14, 2026: State Department Press Release on OFAC Designations

    Sanctioning Senior Operatives of Cártel del Noreste

    PRESS STATEMENT

    THOMAS “TOMMY” PIGOTT, PRINCIPAL DEPUTY SPOKESPERSON

    APRIL 14, 2026

    Today, the Trump Administration is imposing sanctions on Cártel del Noreste (CDN)-linked casinos and senior operatives who enable the cartel’s money laundering, drug trafficking, and human smuggling activities along key border corridors, including Nuevo Laredo. These actions target the financial and logistical networks that sustain one of Mexico’s most violent criminal organizations, which the United States has designated as both a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist.

    Cártel del Noreste’s violence and intimidation, including its March 2022 attack on the U.S. Consulate in Nuevo Laredo, threaten U.S. personnel, undermine Mexican sovereignty, and destabilize communities on both sides of the border. By degrading CDN’s revenue streams and safe havens, the United States is acting to protect lawful cross-border commerce, safeguard American border communities, stop the trafficking of fentanyl and other illicit drugs killing Americans, and strengthen our shared efforts with Mexico to degrade and dismantle narco-terrorist organizations.

    Today’s action continues to deliver on President Trump’s promise to the American people to protect our homeland, counter drug trafficking, dismantle human smuggling networks, and confront the corruption and violence that these foreign organizations fuel throughout our region. These steps underscore the Trump Administration’s commitment to use all tools available to disrupt and dismantle narco-terrorist groups that endanger the United States and our partners.

    The action was taken pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 14059, which targets the international proliferation of illicit drugs and their means of production, and pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, which targets terrorists and their supporters. This is the third action targeting CDN’s leadership and affiliates during the Trump Administration. For more information about today’s designations, please see Treasury’s press release.

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  • April 14, 2026: OFAC Update 1, Part 1: Counter-Terror and Counter-Narcotics Designations

    Counter Narcotics, Counter Terrorism Designations; Issuance of Related General License; Issuance of Amended Russia-related General Licenses and Frequently Asked Question

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Sanctions Cartel-Linked Casinos and Key Associates on U.S.-Mexico Border

    Additions:

    The following individuals have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    • OFAC Programs:
      • SDGT Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594; Executive Order 13224, as amended
      • ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059 Executive Order 14059, “Imposing Sanctions on Foreign Persons Involved in the Global Illicit Drug Trade”

    ISLAS VALDEZ, Eduardo Javier

    • AKA: “Crosty”
    • Address: Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico
    • DOB: 25 Feb 1985
    • POB: Tamaulipas, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: IAVE850225HTSSLD02 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: CARTEL DEL NORESTE

    Supplemental Information: According to the Treasury press release, Eduardo Javier Islas Valdez (“Crosty”) is in charge of CDN human smuggling operations in Nuevo Laredo. He oversees human smugglers known as pateros and serves as a gatekeeper granting permission to move migrants across the Rio Grande into Texas. Islas also controls cash stash houses in Nuevo Laredo to ensure continuity of cross-border activities that sustain CDN’s criminal enterprise. He is described as a close associate of CDN second-in-command Abdon Federico Rodriguez Garcia, who OFAC designated in August 2025. He was designated pursuant to E.O. 14059 and E.O. 13224, as amended.

    PENILLA RODRIGUEZ, Juan Pablo

    • Address: Mexico
    • DOB: 18 Jan 1980
    • POB: Mexico City, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: PERJ800118HDFNDN03 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: CARTEL DEL NORESTE

    Supplemental Information: According to the Treasury press release, Juan Pablo Penilla Rodriguez is a defense attorney who provides illegal services to CDN members beyond the scope of a normal attorney-client relationship. While representing Miguel Angel “Z-40” Trevino Morales, Penilla has served as an intermediary between the incarcerated Miguel Trevino and the current CDN leadership and other criminal associates, enabling Trevino to maintain his leadership role in the cartel despite being in prison. He was designated pursuant to E.O. 14059 and E.O. 13224, as amended.

    RAMOS VAZQUEZ, Jesus Reymundo

    • AKA: RAMOS, Raymundo
    • Address: Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico
    • DOB: 15 Mar 1971
    • POB: Tamaulipas, Mexico
    • Nationality: Mexico
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • C.U.R.P.: RAVJ710315HTSMZS09 (Mexico)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked To: CARTEL DEL NORESTE

    Supplemental Information: According to the Treasury press release, Jesus Reymundo Ramos Vazquez, better known as Raymundo Ramos, leads CDN’s disinformation campaign against Mexican authorities while posing as a “human rights” activist. Under this guise, he files false complaints against the Mexican military, pays individuals to attend protests, and works to protect the reputations of fallen or arrested CDN members. On CDN’s payroll, he has supported the cartel in this capacity for over a decade. He was designated pursuant to E.O. 14059 and E.O. 13224, as amended.

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    • OFAC Programs:
      • SDGT Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594; Executive Order 13224, as amended
      • ILLICIT-DRUGS-EO14059 Executive Order 14059, “Imposing Sanctions on Foreign Persons Involved in the Global Illicit Drug Trade”

    CASINO CENTENARIO

    • Address: Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico
    • Website: casinocentenarionld.com
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 2023
    • Organization Type: Gambling and betting activities
    • Linked To: CARTEL DEL NORESTE

    Supplemental Information: According to the Treasury press release, Casino Centenario is a Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas-based casino operated by Comercializadora y Arrendadora de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. (CAMSA). CDN uses Casino Centenario as a stash house for fentanyl pills and cocaine, as a vehicle to launder illicit proceeds through its gaming operations, and as a venue for CDN members to gather. The press release further states that CDN uses backrooms of Casino Centenario to torture and intimidate alleged enemies of the cartel. The casino is located approximately two miles from the U.S. border. It was designated pursuant to E.O. 14059 and E.O. 13224, as amended. OFAC has issued Counter Terrorism General License 35 to authorize wind-down transactions involving Casino Centenario by U.S. persons.

    COMERCIALIZADORA Y ARRENDADORA DE MEXICO, S.A. DE C.V.

    • Address: Ciudad Madero, Tamaulipas, Mexico
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 28 May 1997
    • Organization Type: Gambling and betting activities
    • RFC: CAM970528IYA (Mexico)
    • Folio Mercantil No.: N-2020067321 (Mexico)
    • Linked To: CASINO CENTENARIO

    Supplemental Information: According to the Treasury press release, Comercializadora y Arrendadora de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. (CAMSA) operates both Casino Centenario and Diamante Casino. CAMSA was designated pursuant to E.O. 14059 for having provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, or technological support for Casino Centenario, and pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended. OFAC has issued Counter Terrorism General License 35 to authorize wind-down transactions involving CAMSA by U.S. persons.

    DIAMANTE CASINO

    • Address: Tampico, Tamaulipas, Mexico
    • Website: diamantecasino.com.mx
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 2021
    • Organization Type: Gambling and betting activities
    • Linked To: COMERCIALIZADORA Y ARRENDADORA DE MEXICO, S.A. DE C.V.

    Supplemental Information: According to the Treasury press release, Diamante Casino is operated by CAMSA and has a location in Tampico, Tamaulipas as well as an online gambling website (diamantecasino.com.mx). It was designated pursuant to E.O. 14059 and E.O. 13224, as amended, for being owned, controlled, or directed by, or acting on behalf of CAMSA. OFAC has issued Counter Terrorism General License 35 to authorize wind-down transactions involving Diamante Casino by U.S. persons.

    Press Chart: 

    20260414_cartel_del_noresteDownload

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  • March 31, 2026 Sanctions-palooza: OFAC Updates: Counter Narcotics Designations Removals; Russia-related Designations Removals

    Counter Narcotics Designations Removals; Russia-related Designations Removals

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Removes Narcotics and Russia-Related Entries from SDN List

    Delistings:

    The following deletions have been made to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: SDNTK Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR part 598

    RODRIGUEZ OLIVERA, Luis (a.k.a. MORFAN RODRIGUEZ, Luis Fernando; a.k.a. RODRIGUEZ MORFIN, Luis; a.k.a. RODRIGUEZ OLIVERA, Luis Fernando), Plaza Pabellion, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico; Colonia Providencia, Calle Quebec, Apt. 1127, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; 4179 Colonia Miravalle, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Sendero Las Acacias 92, Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Vereda Del Canario 1, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Puerto de Hierro, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico; Fresno, CA, United States; DOB: 03 Apr 1972; alt. DOB: 1960; alt. DOB: 1966; POB: Tecalitlan, Jalisco, Mexico; nationality: Mexico; citizen: Mexico (individual).

    MORFAN RODRIGUEZ, Luis Fernando (a.k.a. RODRIGUEZ MORFIN, Luis; a.k.a. RODRIGUEZ OLIVERA, Luis; a.k.a. RODRIGUEZ OLIVERA, Luis Fernando), Plaza Pabellion, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico; Colonia Providencia, Calle Quebec, Apt. 1127, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; 4179 Colonia Miravalle, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Sendero Las Acacias 92, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Vereda Del Canario 1, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Puerto de Hierro, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico; Fresno, CA, United States; DOB: 03 Apr 1972; alt. DOB: 1960; alt. DOB: 1966; POB: Tecalitlan, Jalisco, Mexico; nationality: Mexico; citizen: Mexico (individual).

    The following deletions have been made to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: RUSSIA-EO14024 Blocking Property With Respect To Specified Harmful Foreign Activities of the Government of the Russian Federation

    FESCO MONERON (Cyrillic: ФЕСКО МОНЕРОН) Container Ship 7,519GRT Russia flag; Secondary sanctions risk: See Section 11 of Executive Order 14024.; Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9277412 (vessel) (Linked To: PSB LIZING OOO).

    FESCO MAGADAN (Cyrillic: ФЕСКО МАГАДАН) Container Ship 7,519GRT Russia flag; Secondary sanctions risk: See Section 11 of Executive Order 14024.; Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9287699 (vessel) (Linked To: PSB LIZING OOO).

    SV NIKOLAY (Cyrillic: СВ НИКОЛАЙ) General Cargo Ship 7,519GRT Russia flag; Secondary sanctions risk: See Section 11 of Executive Order 14024.; Vessel Registration Identification: IMO 9538359 (vessel) (Linked To: PSB LIZING OOO).

    Source List:

    • UNITED NEWS OF INDIA, “US removes 3 Russia-flagged ships from sanctions list,” March 31, 2026.
    • Interfax, “U.S. lifts sanctions on 3 Russian seagoing cargo vessels,” March 31, 2026.
    • ACAMS, “OFAC Removes 16 Entries from SDN List,” March 31, 2026.

    Note: The Treasury press release was not on the Recent Actions web page. Gemini found it on the Treasury website.

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  • March 20, 2026: OFAC adds to Counter Terrorism sanctions, removes from Counter-Narcotics and Russian ones

    Counter Terrorism Designations; Counter Narcotics and Russia-related Designations Removals

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Sanctions Global Network Diverting Funds to Benefit Hizballah

    State Press Release: Sanctioning a Global Network Supporting Hizballah Financing

    Additions:

    The following individuals have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: SDGT Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594.

    AL LAKIS, Hamdan Ali

    • Address: Kab Elias Main Road, Yaktine Building, 5th Floor, Kab Elias, Bekaa 009618, Lebanon
    • DOB: 17 Jun 1971
    • POB: Mar Elias Zahle, Lebanon
    • Nationality: Lebanon
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations
    • Gender: Male
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    Supplemental Information: Hamdan Ali Al Lakis manages the day-to-day operations of a money exchange set up with Alaa Hassan Hamieh. This arrangement allows Hamieh to maintain total access to the business and hide from government oversight while collecting the majority of the profits.

    BOUSTANY, Maya

    • AKA: * AL-BUSTANI, Maya
      • AL-BUSTANI, Maya Shadi
    • Address: Qatar; Al-Dabieh, Mount Lebanon, Lebanon
    • DOB: 09 Sep 1981
    • POB: Al-Dabieh, Lebanon
    • Nationality: Lebanon
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations
    • Gender: Female
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    Supplemental Information: Maya Boustany is an associate of Alaa Hassan Hamieh and serves as the Chief Operating Officer for one of his companies. She has acted as a proxy for the Hizballah finance team to establish a front company in Iraq.

    FADEL, Raoof

    • Address: Zone 55, Street 169, Building 85, Villa 3, Doha, Qatar
    • DOB: 20 Dec 1981
    • POB: El Dammamm, Saudi Arabia
    • Nationality: Lebanon
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    Supplemental Information: Raoof Fadel is part of the financial network led by Alaa Hassan Hamieh. He owns and operates Seven Seas for International Trading and Logistics, a Qatar-based company used to move funds for Hizballah.

    HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    • Address: Zantout Street, Safi Darwich Building, 1st Floor, Dawhet El Hoss, Beirut, Lebanon; Southern Tariya, Baalbek, Lebanon
    • DOB: 25 Jan 1980
    • Nationality: Lebanon
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions
    • Passport: OA110548 (Canada)
    • National ID No: 00003985449 (Lebanon)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HIZBALLAH

    Supplemental Information: Alaa Hassan Hamieh is a Hizballah financier and former Vice President of the Investment Development Authority of Lebanon (IDAL). He oversees a global network of companies that launder and raise funds for Hizballah’s finance team, diverting more than $100 million since 2020. He was notably involved in diverting funds from a trade agreement between Iraq and Lebanon intended for reconstruction.

    HAMIEH, Daniel

    • AKA: HAMIE, Daniel
    • Address: Wojska Polskiego 23ABC, Suwalki, Podlaskie 16-400, Poland; Lebanon
    • DOB: 30 Nov 2002
    • POB: Bialystok, Poland
    • Nationality: Poland
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    Supplemental Information: Daniel Hamieh is the nephew of Alaa Hassan Hamieh. He co-owns the Poland-based entity Call Lync Spolka Z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnoscia, which has transferred hundreds of thousands of dollars to companies affiliated with the Hizballah finance team.

    HAMIEH, Muhammad Hasan

    • AKA: HAMIYYAH, Muhammad Hasan
    • Address: Lebanon
    • DOB: 12 Sep 1983
    • POB: Tariyah, Lebanon
    • Nationality: Lebanon
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    Supplemental Information: Muhammad Hasan Hamieh is the brother of Alaa Hassan Hamieh. He assists in tracking funds associated with various projects operated in collaboration with Hizballah finance team members, including Muhammad Al-Bazzal and Rashid Al-Bazzal.

    HASHEM, Bahaa Addin

    • Address: Lebanon
    • DOB: 18 Nov 1982
    • POB: Damascus, Syria
    • Nationality: Syria
    • alt. nationality: Saint Kitts and Nevis
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Passport: RE0151778 (Saint Kitts and Nevis)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    Supplemental Information: Bahaa Addin Hashem is a Syrian gray-arms dealer who co-owns several companies with Alaa Hassan Hamieh. He is the registered owner of the Slovenia-based Call Lync Telekomunikacijske Storitve D.O.O. and is also an employee of the previously designated Hizballah enterprise G.M. Farm.

    SALAMI, Mohamad Jamil

    • AKA: SALAMI, Mohamad
    • Address: Amir Bachir Street, Azarieh Building, Beirut, Lebanon
    • DOB: 17 May 1982
    • Nationality: Lebanon
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    Supplemental Information: Mohamad Jamil Salami is a Hizballah member within Alaa Hassan Hamieh’s network. He has been involved in telecommunications projects and a weapons systems company, and has personally transferred fundsto Hamieh.

    TARSHISHI, Hala Mohamad

    • AKA: TARCHICHI, Hala
    • Address: Lebanon
    • DOB: 26 Feb 1983
    • Nationality: Lebanon
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations
    • Gender: Female
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    Supplemental Information: Hala Mohamad Tarshishi serves as the secretary for Alaa Hassan Hamieh. She acts as a proxy for his companies and conducts financial transactions on his behalf to support his business network.

    WEHBE, Mohamad Hasan

    • AKA: WAHBI, Mohamed Hassan
    • Address: Ras Beirut, Lebanon
    • DOB: 08 Sep 1971
    • POB: Beirut, Lebanon
    • Nationality: Lebanon
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Passport: LR2576480 (Lebanon) expires 13 Mar 2032
    • National ID No: 000034132689 (Lebanon)
    • Party Type: Individual
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    Supplemental Information: Mohamad Hasan Wehbe owns and operates several Lebanon-based entities, including Seven Seas SAL Offshore and Seven Seas Group S.A.R.L., which are utilized by Alaa Hassan Hamieh for money laundering and procurement.

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: SDGT Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 594.

    CALL LYNC S.A.L. OFFSHORE

    • Address: Beirut, Lebanon
    • Party Type: Entity
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Alaa Hassan

    CALL LYNC SPOLKA Z OGRANICZONA ODPOWIEDZIALNOSCIA

    • AKA: CALL LYNC S.P. Z.O.O.
    • Address: Wojska Polskiego 23ABC, Suwalki, Podlaskie 16-400, Poland
    • Party Type: Entity
    • Linked to: HAMIEH, Daniel

    CALL LYNC TELEKOMUNIKACIJSKE STORITVE D.O.O.

    • AKA: CALL LYNC D.O.O.
    • Address: Ljubljana, Slovenia
    • Party Type: Entity
    • Linked to: HASHEM, Bahaa Addin

    SEVEN SEAS FOR INTERNATIONAL TRADING AND LOGISTICS

    • Address: Doha, Qatar
    • Party Type: Entity
    • Linked to: FADEL, Raoof

    SEVEN SEAS GROUP S.A.R.L.

    • Address: Beirut, Lebanon
    • Party Type: Entity
    • Linked to: WEHBE, Mohamad Hasan

    SEVEN SEAS SAL OFFSHORE

    • Address: Second Floor, Airport Business Center, Airport Road, Beirut, Lebanon
    • Additional Sanctions Information: Subject to Secondary Sanctions Pursuant to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 12 Jul 2012
    • Registration Number: 1806107 (Lebanon)
    • Party Type: Entity
    • Linked to: WEHBE, Mohamad Hasan

    Delistings:

    The following deletions have been made to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: SDNTK Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 598.

    GASTELUM SERRANO, Cesar (a.k.a. “LA SENORA“), Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico; DOB 1961; POB Mexico; nationality Mexico; Gender Male (individual).

    The following deletions have been made to OFAC’s SDN List:

    OFAC Program: RUSSIA-EO14024 Executive Order 14024, “Blocking Property With Respect To Specified Harmful Foreign Activities of the Government of the Russian Federation”.

    KORZHAVIN, Yurii Anatolyevich, Russia; DOB 28 Sep 1957; POB Moscow, Russia; nationality Russia; GenderMale; Tax ID No. 770702814195 (Russia) (individual).

    KORZHAVINA, Lidiya Germanovna, Russia; DOB 22 May 1958; POB Moscow, Russia; nationality Russia; GenderFemale; Tax ID No. 771405312885 (Russia) (individual).

    Source List:

    Note: The Treasury Department press release is legit, but it’s not part of the Recent Actions page item (follow the link if you don’t believe me).

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