August 7, 2020

OFAC sanctions Libyan smuggler and associates creating instability in Libya

On August 6, 2020, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign assets Control designated Faysal al-Wadi, two of his associates, as well as Malta-based company Alwefaq Ltd, pursuant to Executive Order 13726, for engaging directly or indirectly in actions that threaten the security and stability of Libya.  Wadi, a Libyan national, is also being designated for his unlawful exploitation of oil and other natural resources in Libya.  OFAC reports that Wadi and his associates ran a smuggling operation that transports fuel and illegal drugs through Libya to Malta, primarily using the vessel Maraya.  Consequently, the vessel Maraya was identified as blocked property as part of the designation.  Alwefaq is designated for being owned and controlled by Wadi’s two associates.

As a result of these designations, all US property belonging to these individuals and entity, including the vessel, is blocked, and all transactions in the US are generally prohibited.  

OFAC Press Release