Isle of Man Treasury publicises four new Global Human Rights sanctions designations now subject to an asset freeze

The Isle of Man Treasury issued a financial sanctions notice publicising that four individuals have been added to the UK Sanctions List under the Global Human Rights sanctions regime, making them subject to an asset freeze in the Isle of Man. The notice explains that the UK Global Human Rights Sanctions Regulations 2020 have effect in the Isle of Man through the Sanctions (Implementation of UK Sanctions) Regulations 2024 made under the Sanctions Act 2024. The newly designated individuals are Shalva Bedoidze (First Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia), Mirza Kezevadze (Deputy Head of the Special Task Department), Giorgi Gabitashvili (General Prosecutor), and Karlo Katsitadze (Head of the Special Investigatory Service, also known as Koka Katsitadze). The statements of reasons link the designations to alleged responsibility for, or failures to investigate or prosecute, serious violations related to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment in connection with violence during protests. Relevant institutions that suspect a match and hold or deal with funds or economic resources of a designated person must freeze assets immediately, avoid dealing with or making assets available (unless a legal exemption or licence applies), and report frozen assets and suspected breaches or blocked transactions to the FIU. The notice also highlights that ownership or control by a listed person is relevant to screening, and that non-compliance or circumvention is a criminal offence.