An art dealer, known for his appearances on the BBC show Bargain Hunt, has admitted he failed to report dealings with investors linked to Hezbollah.
In court, it was revealed that Oghenochuko Ojiri sold artwork to Nazem Ahmad without informing the authorities, despite being aware that Ahmad was under U.S. sanctions due to associations with banned groups.
Ojiri became the first individual to be charged with such offenses, pleading guilty to eight counts at Westminster Magistrates Court on Friday, related to activities between October 2020 and December 2021.
Prosecutor Lyndon Harris informed the court that Ojiri had facilitated art sales worth £140,000 and had congratulated Ahmad on his acquisitions. Harris mentioned that Ojiri had read news articles referencing the sanctions against Ahmad and had participated in discussions where Ahmad’s ties to Hezbollah were described as common knowledge.
According to Harris, Ojiri was aware of Ahmad’s status when the transactions occurred, having accessed information about Ahmad’s designation and shared it with others.
“It’s suggested that Ojiri was involved in conversations where many were aware of Ahmad’s connections to terrorism,” Harris stated.
Harris further noted that Ojiri directly dealt with Ahmad, negotiated the sales, and congratulated him afterward.
U.S. authorities have labeled Ahmad as a “leading financial donor” to Hezbollah, alleging he used high-value art and diamonds to launder money for the group. He is accused of leveraging front companies to help him acquire artwork and diamond services exceeding $160 million (£120 million).
Following the implementation of new money laundering regulations in January 2020 that placed the art market under HMRC supervision, Ojiri reportedly discussed these changes with colleagues, indicating his understanding of the new rules.
District Judge Clark granted bail but mandated that Ojiri surrender his passport and refrain from seeking international travel documents.
Ojiri is scheduled to be sentenced at the Old Bailey on June 6, with a maximum prison term of five years for the violations.
