Investigation Concludes, Accused Face Trial
The United Arab Emirates has announced the conclusion of its extensive investigation into an attempt to illegally smuggle military equipment destined for the Port Sudan Authority. Following the probe, the accused individuals have been referred to judicial authorities for trial, underscoring the UAE's firm stance against illicit arms trafficking and its commitment to international security. The initial foiling of the smuggling attempt was announced on April 30, 2025, by the UAE Attorney General.
Details of the Smuggling Operation
The investigation, led by the State Security Public Prosecution, uncovered a sophisticated operation involving a cell engaged in illegal trafficking of military equipment and money laundering. Authorities intercepted a private aircraft at a UAE airport, where a large quantity of military-grade ammunition was being inspected.
Key findings from the investigation include:
- Equipment Seized: A significant amount of 62x54.7mm 'Giranov' caliber ammunition (also referred to as 54.7x62mm Goryunov-type military-grade ammunition), alongside reports of deals involving Kalashnikov rifles, machine guns, and grenades.
- Financial Aspects: Financial proceeds from the deals were seized, and investigations revealed that part of the funding was channeled through a bank operating within the UAE. The cell reportedly earned $2.6 million in profits from two deals.
- Involved Parties: The cell members had dealings with Sudanese military authorities, including officers, officials, politicians, and businessmen. Notably, some individuals and companies involved are listed on US sanctions lists and by Interpol.
- Sudanese Connections: The transactions were reportedly carried out at the request of the Sudanese Armed Forces' Armament Committee, chaired by Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan and his deputy Yasser Al-Atta, and coordinated by Othman Al-Zubair, the financial official of Port Sudan. Former Sudanese intelligence chief Salah Gosh was also implicated.
UAE's Commitment to International Law
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) reiterated the UAE's 'unwavering commitment to preventing any attempts to misuse its territories, ports, or airspace for illicit activities, including attempts to smuggle weapons to any of the warring parties in Sudan's civil war, or to other conflict zones.' The UAE emphasized its adherence to UN Security Council resolutions and broader international legal frameworks, highlighting its role in safeguarding international peace and security. This action reinforces the UAE's position as a responsible global actor dedicated to combating transnational organized crime and preventing its infrastructure from being exploited to fuel conflicts abroad.
6 Comments
Katchuka
Preventing conflict escalation by stopping arms. A truly responsible global actor.
Noir Black
The detailed investigation into financial aspects and specific equipment is impressive and shows serious effort. Yet, the implication of high-ranking Sudanese officials suggests a much larger problem that might be difficult to fully resolve.
BuggaBoom
Kudos to the authorities for this thorough investigation and bringing the accused to trial!
Raphael
Too little, too late. Where was this 'commitment' before the situation escalated?
anubis
Just a show for PR. What about all the other arms dealings in the region?
Coccinella
While the commitment to international law is commendable, one has to wonder about the broader context of arms flows in the region. Stopping one operation is important, but the systemic issues remain unaddressed.