The United States has taken strong action against Nicaragua by imposing new sanctions on several individuals and companies connected to the country’s gold sector. These sanctions were announced by the U.S. Treasury Department and aim to limit financial activities linked to the Nicaraguan government.
The move targets people and businesses believed to be involved in generating money through gold production and exports. According to officials, this money may be used to strengthen political control within the country.
Among those affected are high-ranking officials and individuals closely linked to the leadership, including family members of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo. Some companies operating in mining and gold exports have also been included.
Sanctions mean that any assets held in the United States can be frozen. It also prevents American individuals and businesses from dealing with those listed. This can make it difficult for the sanctioned entities to operate globally.
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Allegations of Asset Seizure and Illegal Gold Profits
The US Treasury stated that the sanctions are linked to a 2025 incident involving a gold processing facility owned by BHMB Mining Nicaragua S.A.. The facility, which had foreign investment from a US company, was reportedly taken over by authorities in Nicaragua.
Officials described this as a forced seizure. They said such actions allowed the government to take control of valuable assets and increase earnings from gold exports. In recent years, Nicaragua has seen growth in gold production, making it an important source of income.
Authorities in Washington believe that profits from this sector are not being used fairly. Instead, they allege that money is being directed toward private partners and insiders connected to those in power. There are also concerns that some funds may be used to support groups linked to maintaining political control.
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Several companies named in the sanctions include Zhong Fu, Santa Rita Mining Co., Exportadora de Metales Sociedad Anonima, and Grupo Minero Xiloa S.A.. These companies are accused of helping process, sell, or export gold.
Some are also said to have used the US financial system to move funds and make them appear legitimate. The sanctions list also includes Santiago Hernan Bermudez Tapia, along with Maurice Facundo Ortega Murillo and Daniel Edmundo Ortega Murillo.
Long-Standing Tensions and Human Rights Concerns
This development is part of an ongoing situation between the United States and Nicaragua. Relations have remained tense for several years.
The issue dates back to April 2018, when large protests took place in Nicaragua. These protests were followed by a strong government crackdown. Reports from the United Nations raised concerns about serious human rights violations.
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Investigations described the situation as a coordinated system of repression. Many officials were accused of actions that limited freedom and used force against protesters.
Since then, different United States administrations have applied economic and diplomatic pressure on Nicaragua. These actions have included sanctions targeting individuals, institutions, and industries linked to government revenue.
The latest sanctions focus on the gold sector due to its growing importance in the country’s economy. Officials also raised concerns about American investments being taken without proper process. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said such actions contributed to the decision.
Several companies and individuals named in the sanctions have not yet responded publicly. There has been no immediate comment from those affected.
The situation continues to draw attention as it involves trade, economic policy, and human rights issues linked to Nicaragua’s gold industry.