The sanctions freeze Pattni's assets as part of a wider effort to combat illegal gold trade that undermines economies and fuels conflict.
UK Imposes Sanctions on Kenyan Businessman Linked to Illicit Gold Trade
UK Imposes Sanctions on Kenyan Businessman Linked to Illicit Gold Trade
The UK and US have targeted Kamlesh Pattni for alleged involvement in smuggling gold and corruption.
The United Kingdom, alongside the United States, has enacted sanctions against Kamlesh Pattni, a businessman of British-Kenyan descent, primarily due to his alleged participation in the illicit gold trade that spans multiple countries. Pattni, his wife, and brother-in-law face asset freezes, according to a statement from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. This latest move follows Pattni's past involvement in the notorious Goldenberg scandal in Kenya, which reportedly siphoned off over $600 million from the nation’s economy.
Pattni has vehemently denied accusations regarding his illicit activities, specifically regarding his involvement in gold smuggling in Zimbabwe. The UK statement highlights the detrimental effects of illicit gold trading, citing its role in fostering corruption, undermining the legal economy, and perpetuating human rights violations, including child labor. Furthermore, the UK highlighted the connection between illegal gold and Russia’s ability to fund its ongoing military operations in Ukraine, reinforcing its 2022 ban on Russian gold imports.
The sanctions against Pattni aim to disrupt and deter his business dealings, particularly those linked to his historical role in financial fraud during the 1990s. Pattni was previously scrutinized as a key figure in the Goldenberg affair, a fraud that nearly toppled the Kenyan economy and saw the involvement of high-ranking officials. Despite facing a trial in 2006, the proceedings were dismissed, allowing Pattni to reinvent himself, later claiming to be a pastor.
The US Treasury added that Pattni's financial dealings were facilitated by his close ties to former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, exploiting the country’s rich resources while leaving citizens deprived of economic benefits. His alleged connections extend beyond Kenya and Zimbabwe, as revealed by Al-Jazeera’s investigation into the so-called "gold mafia." Although Pattni continues to reject allegations of involvement in money laundering or illicit gold procurement, his extensive network remains under scrutiny.
These sanctions coincide with the UK government’s broader initiative to combat global corruption, highlighting increasing concerns over the implications of illicit financial practices on both local and international stability.
Pattni has vehemently denied accusations regarding his illicit activities, specifically regarding his involvement in gold smuggling in Zimbabwe. The UK statement highlights the detrimental effects of illicit gold trading, citing its role in fostering corruption, undermining the legal economy, and perpetuating human rights violations, including child labor. Furthermore, the UK highlighted the connection between illegal gold and Russia’s ability to fund its ongoing military operations in Ukraine, reinforcing its 2022 ban on Russian gold imports.
The sanctions against Pattni aim to disrupt and deter his business dealings, particularly those linked to his historical role in financial fraud during the 1990s. Pattni was previously scrutinized as a key figure in the Goldenberg affair, a fraud that nearly toppled the Kenyan economy and saw the involvement of high-ranking officials. Despite facing a trial in 2006, the proceedings were dismissed, allowing Pattni to reinvent himself, later claiming to be a pastor.
The US Treasury added that Pattni's financial dealings were facilitated by his close ties to former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, exploiting the country’s rich resources while leaving citizens deprived of economic benefits. His alleged connections extend beyond Kenya and Zimbabwe, as revealed by Al-Jazeera’s investigation into the so-called "gold mafia." Although Pattni continues to reject allegations of involvement in money laundering or illicit gold procurement, his extensive network remains under scrutiny.
These sanctions coincide with the UK government’s broader initiative to combat global corruption, highlighting increasing concerns over the implications of illicit financial practices on both local and international stability.
