US Treasury Targets Hysa Family Over Money Laundering Allegations

A new round of US financial actions placed attention on an international commercial network tied to the Albanian Hysa family. Treasury officials announced sanctions after investigators traced complex transactions that routed cartel proceeds through companies operating in several countries.

Good to Know

• Treasury targeted more than twenty companies across Mexico, Canada and Poland
• FinCEN says the network used casinos and fake gambling activity to move funds
• Six Hysa family members and Mexican associate Gilberto López had assets frozen

FinCEN Outlines Methods Used To Move Drug Proceeds

FinCEN found that the network relied on shell companies, simulated wagering activity and casino-based transfers to disguise revenue from drug trafficking. Investigators said payments flowed through entertainment venues, food businesses and gaming operations with little genuine commercial purpose.

Authorities identified Luftar, Arben, Ramiz, Fatos and Fabjon as central figures involved in the activity. According to Treasury:

“The Hysa organized crime group, comprised of Luftar, Arben, Ramiz, Fatos and Fabjon, has used its influence and investments in Mexico to launder drug trafficking proceeds. The group is believed to operate with the consent of the Sinaloa Cartel.”

US officials froze assets linked to six family members along with López, a Mexican associate. Companies tied to the network were also blocked from accessing the US financial system.

Individuals Connected To Multiple Businesses Across Regions

Investigators describe Luftar Hysa, 57, as an individual who moved frequently between Canada and Mexico. Arben managed several commercial entities, while Fatos and Fabjon allegedly operated a European corporate structure used to shift illicit proceeds. The group controlled activity in locations including Nuevo León, Sonora, Sinaloa and Baja California.

Some of these entities have appeared in previous reports. In 2022, Luftar Hysa publicly rejected claims linking him to drug trafficking. He said:

“I, Luftar Ali Hysa, never convicted, never prosecuted, never detained, declare that I have never had any problem with justice in my life. All my problems in life have been with injustice.”

Casinos In Multiple States Flagged For Simulated Gambling Activity

A separate review from Treasury highlighted ten Mexican gaming establishments that helped move more than 2 million dollars between 2017 and 2024. Casinos such as Midas, Emine, Mirage, Palermo and Skampa were cited for simulated bets and structured cash transactions that obscured the origin of funds.

FinCEN said the activity often involved transfers through entertainment companies and food service groups that functioned as operational covers.

Among the sanctioned businesses were Bliri, Cucina Del Porto, Diversiones Los Mochis, El Arte de Cocinas y Beber, Entretenimiento Villahermosa, Grupo Internacional Canhysamex, H Hidrocarburos, Hysa Forwarders, LH Pro-Gaming, Procesadora de Alimentos HS, Rosetta Gaming and Hysa Holdings.

FAQ

Why did Treasury issue sanctions?

FinCEN linked the Hysa network to laundering operations that benefited the Sinaloa Cartel.

How were the funds moved?

Investigators found shell companies, fake betting activity and casino transfers used to disguise proceeds.

Who was sanctioned?

Six members of the Hysa family, Mexican associate Gilberto López and more than twenty related companies.

Were casinos directly involved?

Treasury said ten gaming establishments in several Mexican states facilitated simulated bets and structured transactions.

Is this the first investigation involving the Hysa network?

No. Reports from 2022 had previously referenced possible cartel links, which Luftar Hysa denied publicly.

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