British Sanctions Target Gold Trading Networks in Sudan

On July 16, 2026, the United Kingdom announced sanctions against illicit gold trading networks, accusing them of playing a pivotal role in fueling the Sudanese conflict. The sanctions targeted 11 individuals and entities suspected of links to gold financing and trading networks that support either the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) or the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), thus exacerbating the conflict, according to a statement from the British government. The new sanctions included three Sudanese nationals: Abu Dhar Abdel Nabi Habib Allah Ahmed, Mazen Fadlallah, and Ahmed Hashim, known for their connections to financing the RSF. The sanctions also targeted Ahmed Abdullah, a procurement official linked to the Sudanese military, suspected of providing weapons and financing to the army. Three gold mining companies owned by the Sudanese government and affiliated with the military—Omdurman Mining, Ariab Mining, and Sudamin Limited—were also targeted. A statement from the British Foreign Office indicated that the sanctions primarily aim to disrupt the trading and financing networks that divert Sudan’s gold wealth into revenue to support the ongoing war. The statement indicated that the gold industry in Sudan has become a driver of the war economy, with billions of dollars' worth of gold smuggled annually through illicit channels, contributing to the continued financing of arms purchases and the activities of armed groups. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper affirmed London's continued pursuit of those fueling the war in Sudan. She noted that the new sanctions package aims to weaken Sudan's war economy. She added that the Sudanese people are paying a heavy price for a war fueled not only by weapons and fighters, but also by illicit flows of gold and funds supporting the warring parties. The UK called on the Rapid Support Forces to halt their offensive on El Obeid and demanded the extension of the UN arms embargo to include the city, amid escalating concerns about the humanitarian and security situation. This week, the European Union also announced new sanctions targeting Sudan's gold trade as a significant source of funding for the military conflict in the country.