The United Kingdom has recently taken a significant step in the fight against corruption by imposing a travel ban and asset freeze on Angolan billionaire Isabel dos Santos. Dos Santos, who is Africa’s first female billionaire, has been at the center of corruption allegations both in Angola and internationally, stemming from her association with her father, Jose Eduardo dos Santos, who governed Angola for nearly four decades.
Despite vehemently denying the accusations and claiming to be a victim of a political vendetta, Dos Santos has faced severe repercussions, including the freezing and confiscation of her assets in Angola and Portugal. The UK government alleges that she misappropriated over £50 million from her position at Angola’s state oil company, Sonangol, for personal gain, as well as diverting more than £300 million while managing the telecoms firm Unitel.
In a blow to Dos Santos, she recently lost her appeal to release the freeze on up to £580 million of her assets in a lawsuit filed by Unitel at London’s High Court. Additionally, Interpol issued a red notice for Dos Santos in 2022, further complicating her situation as she claims to be residing in Dubai.
The UK government’s actions against Dos Santos are part of a broader effort to combat corruption, as they also announced sanctions on seven other individuals as part of their global anti-corruption campaign. This move signifies the UK’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for corruption and illicit financial activities, regardless of their status or wealth.
