UAE security services have successfully thwarted an illegal attempt to transfer military arms and equipment to the Sudanese Armed Forces, the UAE Attorney General, Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, confirmed on Wednesday.
The authorities intercepted the operation, which involved a private aircraft carrying approximately five million rounds of ammunition intended for the Sudanese military. The seizure was part of a broader investigation into a network of individuals orchestrating the illicit transfer of weapons without the necessary legal approvals.
The UAE’s security agencies detained several members of the trafficking cell during an inspection of the aircraft at one of the country’s airports. The investigation revealed that the operation was being coordinated by a mix of Sudanese military figures, political figures, and businessmen. Among those implicated were high-ranking Sudanese military officials, including Salah Gosh, former Chief of Intelligence, and others closely connected to Sudanese military leadership, such as General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan and his deputy, Yasser Al-Atta. 
The cell had been involved in brokering illegal deals for Kalashnikov rifles, machine guns, grenades, and ammunition, all in violation of international arms laws. The arms were allegedly being transferred under the guise of a commercial deal involving sugar imports. However, fake contracts and forged invoices were used to hide the true nature of the shipment, with military cargo being declared as medical supplies upon arrival in the UAE.
The operation also involved the use of the “Hawaladars” transfer method, a money transfer system used to facilitate the illegal arms deals. Investigators discovered that several companies, including one associated with a Sudanese-Ukrainian businessman, were facilitating the operation. International authorities, including the United States, have been investigating some of these companies for their involvement in weapons trafficking.
The UAE authorities uncovered a significant financial network behind the operation, which had garnered millions of dollars in profits. These funds were distributed among the various participants, including former Sudanese intelligence officers, military figures, and businessmen. According to officials, the network continued to operate with the full knowledge and approval of the Sudanese Armed Forces’ leadership, underlining the seriousness of the breach.
Dr. Al Shamsi emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that such illegal arms deals not only pose a direct threat to national security but also contribute to the ongoing instability in Sudan. The UAE has long been committed to combating illegal arms trafficking and has taken strong action in line with its international obligations.
The investigation remains ongoing, with further arrests expected as authorities continue to probe the full extent of the criminal network. The suspects are expected to be referred to trial soon, with the Public Prosecution committed to ensuring swift and decisive legal action.
