The issue of Sudan’s military equipment…an imminent trial, and the UAE resolves its position

An official source from the State Security Prosecution told the Emirates News Agency, WAM, that the Prosecution has completed the ongoing investigations into the case related to the attempt to pass a quantity of military equipment to the Port Sudan Authority through UAE territory, and that the accused are expected to be referred to trial, within the framework of the UAE’s commitment to transparency and justice.

On April 30, the Public Prosecutor of the Federation announced that the security services had thwarted an attempt to illegally pass weapons and military equipment to the Port Sudan Authority, and arrested members of a cell involved in illegal trafficking in military equipment and money laundering, including mediation, brokerage, and the collection of commissions in hidden ways.

The defendants were seized while they were inspecting a large quantity of 62 x 54.7 caliber Geranov ammunition from military equipment inside a private plane at one of the country’s airports, in addition to seizing part of the proceeds of the financial deal in the possession of two of the defendants, under the supervision of the Public Prosecution and based on judicial warrants issued by the Public Prosecutor for investigation and inspection.

Investigations revealed the involvement of the cell members in dealings with Sudanese military leaders, including Sudanese officers, officials, politicians, and businessmen, in addition to people and companies listed on the US and Interpol international sanctions lists.

She explained that the deals were made at the request of the Sudanese Army Armament Committee, headed by Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan and his deputy, Yasser Al-Atta, and coordinated by Othman Al-Zubair, the financial official of the Port Sudan Authority, while the Public Prosecution confirmed that other names will be announced later.

The official stated that the results of the investigations revealed a surprise related to the source of financing for military equipment deals for the benefit of the Port Sudan Authority. They also indicated the availability of material evidence, audio and video clips, conversations exchanged between members of the cell, and documents related to the deals, including contracts, financial restrictions, and declarations showing the order of implementation and passing of funds. Reports of the technical committees also showed that part of the financing was done through one of the banks operating within the country.