By Canadian Press

Canada joins U.S., Britain in sanctioning Lebanese trio accused of embezzlement

Aug 10, 2023 | 8:47 AM

OTTAWA — Canada is joining peers in leveraging sanctions on a trio of people tied to an alleged embezzlement scandal at Lebanon’s central bank.

The sanctions apply to former bank governor Riad Salameh, his brother Raja Salameh and his former assistant Marianne Hoayek.

The three stand accused of involvement in allegedly siphoning commissions from the central bank when it bought bonds, without providing any services of value.

Prosecutors allege those funds were used to buy luxury properties for the three in multiple European countries.

Britain and Washington have also sanctioned Salameh, accusing him of contributing to endemic corruption in Lebanon.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

1h ago

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

7h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

'Compassionate Friends' offer peer support for bereaved in Medicine Hat

22h ago

The sanctions come as Lebanon is years into an economic crisis, with soaring costs of living and people fleeing for Europe on rickety boats at levels not seen for decades.

Last week, Canada joined other Western countries in chastising Lebanese officials for “stalling” on an impartial investigation into the deadly explosion at the Port of Beirut, marking the third anniversary of that event.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 10, 2023.

The Canadian Press