What is the first step a sanctions compliance officer should take when a sham divestment...

When a sham divestment (false or deceptive attempt to hide sanctioned ownership) is suspected, the first step is to conduct sufficient due diligence to confirm whether the organizational restructuring is legitimate.

This may include reviewing ownership documents, corporate registries, control structures, and transaction activity.

Only after confirming the facts should the institution escalate internally, report externally, or terminate the relationship.