The United States Department of State has introduced a new set of sanctions on Monday, targeting former prosecutor of Bosnia and Herzegovina Diana Kajmakovic and former chief of intelligence agency Osman 'Osmica' Mehmedagic, both already under the sanctions of the US Department of Treasury for corruption and undermining of democratic processes. Pročitaj više

Kajmakovic and Mehmedagic were designated for involvement in “significant corruption,” according to the statement.

“In support of narcotics traffickers and other criminals, Kajmakovic helped hide evidence, prevent prosecution, and otherwise assist criminal activity in exchange for personal gain. She also attempted to block an investigation into her apparent criminal affiliates, including Osman Mehmedagic,” the US Department of State said.

As part of the action, Mehmedagic's wife, Amela Mehmedagic Sehovic, was also designated.

“Mehmedagic collaborated with criminal networks and abused his public position to enrich himself,” according to the decision.

The Department of State said the actions were taken on the occasion of International Anti-Corruption Day and the opening of the Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention Against Corruption, to promote accountability for corrupt actors around the world.

US blacklists Bosnia's former intelligence chief

US Treasury Department sanctions Bosnia's State Prosecutor Kajmakovic

Antony Blinken, the Secretary of State, said President Joe Biden has signed a presidential proclamation to expand the State Department’s visa restriction authorities “so those who engage in corruption and their family members can be subjected to visa restrictions, strengthening our ability to deny safe haven to those who enable public corruption.”

“Pursuant to current law, I am designating over 30 individuals, including current and former foreign officials and immediate family members, as generally ineligible for entry to the United States due to their involvement in significant corruption. These actions are complemented and reinforced by the Department of the Treasury’s designations,” he said.

He stressed that “collectively these actions reinforce our comprehensive effort to promote accountability for corrupt actors and deter future corruption.”

“The United States will continue to coordinate with allies and partners and use all available tools to address corruption in all its forms and promote accountability for malign actors,” Blinken said.