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Published on 2024-03-06 19:14:43
The US Justice Department recently made headlines with the arrests of Peter Biar Ajak and Abraham Chol Keech on charges of conspiring to purchase and illegally export millions of dollars’ worth of weapons to South Sudan. This violation of the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA) has raised concerns about the ongoing violence in South Sudan, which has prompted a UN arms embargo.
The federal criminal complaint alleges that Ajak and Keech were involved in a scheme to smuggle heavy weapons, such as fully automatic rifles, grenade launchers, and Stinger missile systems, from the United States to South Sudan. The fact that South Sudan is under a UN arms embargo due to the violent conflict between armed groups makes this case even more concerning. The defendants are said to have openly discussed the illegal nature of the transaction, emphasizing the need for discretion and agreeing to pay a risk fee for the weapons. Additionally, they discussed the possibility of disguising the weapons as humanitarian aid and paying bribes to facilitate the smuggling operation.
If convicted, both Ajak and Keech could face up to 20 years in prison for conspiring to violate the AECA, up to 20 years for conspiring to violate the ECRA, and up to 10 years for smuggling goods from the United States. The Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations, along with other agencies, are currently investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona and the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.
This illegal arms export operation has raised concerns about the impact it could have on the already volatile situation in South Sudan. The flow of weapons into conflict zones only serves to escalate violence and prolong conflicts, leading to further human rights abuses and instability in the region. The enforcement of arms export control laws is crucial in preventing the illicit transfer of weapons and promoting peace and security in conflict-affected regions.
The US Department of Justice has released a full statement on this case, shedding light on the details of the investigation and the charges brought against Ajak and Keech. It is important for authorities to carefully monitor and regulate arms exports to prevent illicit activities that fuel conflicts and threaten the stability of fragile regions like South Sudan.
In conclusion, the arrests of Ajak and Keech serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding arms export control laws to prevent the illegal flow of weapons into conflict zones. By prosecuting those involved in such illicit activities, authorities can send a strong message against the illegal arms trade and promote peace and security in regions affected by violence and conflict.
Read the original article on Talk of Juba
