What changed
The UNSC added one individual, Mohammad Ali Al Habbo, to its ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida Sanctions List. RBI has communicated this update to all regulated entities, requiring them to update their screening lists and ensure compliance with asset freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo measures.
What it means for you
Banks and other regulated entities must immediately screen their customer databases against this new entry and freeze any accounts or assets linked to the individual. Failure to comply could lead to regulatory action under UAPA and RBI guidelines. This is a routine but critical update to counter-terrorism financing obligations.
What you must do
- Update your UNSC sanctions screening lists to include Mohammad Ali Al Habbo.
- Conduct a sweep of all customer accounts and transactions for matches with this new entry.
- Freeze any identified assets or accounts immediately and report to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) and MHA.
- Forward any delisting requests received from this individual to Joint Secretary (CTCR), MHA electronically.
- Ensure compliance with the existing KYC Master Direction and UAPA Section 51A requirements.
Who it affects
All scheduled commercial banks, Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), Payment system operators, All other regulated entities under RBI
What is the source of this sanctions list update?
The update comes from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Committee established under Resolutions 1267, 1989, and 2253, and was forwarded by the Ministry of External Affairs to RBI.
What should we do if we find a match for this individual in our records?
Immediately freeze the account or asset, and report the action to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) as per existing guidelines.
How can this individual request delisting from the sanctions list?
The individual can submit a delisting request to the UN Ombudsperson appointed by the UN Secretary-General, or to the Joint Secretary (CTCR), MHA, who will process it further.