TV Art Expert Jailed for Hezbollah Finance Link

A prominent art dealer, Oghenochuko Ojiri, known for his appearances on popular BBC television shows like Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, has been sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for failing to disclose art sales to a man suspected of financing the proscribed terror group Hezbollah. This groundbreaking prosecution, believed to be the first of its kind, underscores the heightened scrutiny on financial transactions within the art market.
Ojiri, 53, admitted to eight counts under Section 21A of the Terrorism Act 2000 for failing to make a required disclosure during the course of his business. The Old Bailey heard that between October 2020 and December 2021, Ojiri sold approximately £140,000 worth of artworks to Nazem Ahmad. Ahmad has been designated by both UK and US authorities as a suspected financier for Hezbollah, with allegations linking him to money laundering and the illicit trade of "blood diamonds" used to fund violence.
Evidence presented in court revealed that Ojiri was fully aware of Ahmad's sanctioned status and suspected involvement in financing terrorism. Prosecutors stated that Ojiri had researched news reports about Ahmad's designation and even discussed the matter with others. Despite this knowledge, he proceeded with the transactions, engaging in activities designed to conceal the true purchaser's identity, including changing details on invoices and storing Ahmad's name under an alias in his mobile phone.
The judge, Mrs. Justice Cheema-Grubb, emphasized during sentencing that Ojiri "knew about Ahmad's suspected involvement in financing terrorism and the way the art market can be exploited by someone like him." She acknowledged Ojiri's hard work, talent, and charisma, which had brought him significant success, but stressed that he knew he should not have been dealing with Ahmad. The court also heard that Ojiri had been warned by others about his conduct but chose to continue his dealings with Ahmad.
This case serves as a stark warning to those operating within the regulated art market sector. It highlights the crucial role financial investigation plays in counter-terrorism efforts and the increasing expectation for art dealers and other businesses to conduct thorough due diligence on their clients. Ojiri's arrest occurred while he was filming for a BBC program, and his defense highlighted the immense personal and professional cost, including the loss of his reputation and the work he loves. The sentence of two years and six months in prison, with an additional year to be spent on licence, is expected to send a clear message about the severe consequences of failing to comply with anti-terrorism financing regulations. This prosecution marks a significant moment in the enforcement of laws aimed at preventing illicit financial flows through the art world.
Source@BBC