UK Sanctions Billionaires in Anti-Corruption Drive

The United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on Angolan billionaire Isabel dos Santos, Ukrainian oligarch Dmytro Firtash, and Latvian businessman Aivars Lembergs as part of a crackdown on corruption. These measures include travel bans and asset freezes, marking the Labour government's first step in tightening Britain's anti-corruption sanctions regime as promised in July's election. Dos Santos, Africa's first female billionaire, is accused of embezzling over 350 million pounds from Angolan state firms Sonangol and Unitel, claims she denies. Firtash is wanted by Ukrainian and U.S. authorities for allegedly embezzling nearly $500 million related to Ukraine's gas transit system. Lembergs, one of Latvia's richest individuals, is accused of bribery and money laundering. These actions reflect a broader commitment to tackle 'dirty money' and target individuals enriching themselves at the expense of public resources.