What changed
The UN Security Council added one individual—Abdul Rehman Makki (alias Abdur Rehman Makki, etc.)—to its ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida Sanctions List on January 16, 2023. RBI has now directed all regulated entities to implement the asset freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo against this entry under Section 51A of UAPA, 1967.
What it means for you
Banks must immediately check their customer database for any accounts or transactions linked to this newly listed individual. Any identified accounts must be frozen, and no further transactions should be permitted. Non-compliance could attract regulatory action under KYC Master Directions and UAPA provisions.
What you must do
- Screen all existing and new customers against the updated UNSC sanctions list, specifically the entry for Abdul Rehman Makki.
- Freeze any accounts or assets identified as belonging to or controlled by the listed individual, and report to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) and MHA.
- Update internal AML/KYC systems and watchlists to include this new entry immediately.
- Forward any delisting requests received from customers to Joint Secretary (CTCR), MHA, and inform the UN Ombudsperson process.
Who it affects
All scheduled commercial banks, Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), Payment system operators, All other RBI-regulated entities
What is the legal basis for this action?
Section 51A of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, read with RBI's KYC Master Directions (Feb 25, 2016, as amended), requires all regulated entities to freeze assets and deny services to individuals/entities on the UNSC sanctions list.
How do I handle a customer who claims to be wrongly listed?
Forward the delisting request electronically to Joint Secretary (CTCR), Ministry of Home Affairs. Also inform the customer they can approach the UN Ombudsperson for independent review.
Where can I find the full updated sanctions list?
The complete ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida Sanctions List is available at www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1267/aq_sanctions_list and the Taliban list at www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials.