Libyan Oil for Chinese Military Drones: Canadian Police Charge 2 Former UN Employees with Conspiracy

The RCMP’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team has uncovered a conspiracy involving the illegal sale of Chinese drones and military equipment destined for Libya. Fathi Ben Ahmed Mhaouek, 61, and Mahmud Mohamed Elsuwaye Sayeh, 37, have been charged with conspiracy in accordance with the United Nations Act and its Regulations Implementing the United Nations Resolutions and Imposing Special Economic Measures on Libya.

The investigation revealed that Sayeh allegedly used a scheme to conceal military equipment sellers and buyers, which are subject to UN sanctions related to Libya. Sayeh is currently wanted by police authorities, and a Red Notice has been issued by INTERPOL.

Mhaouek has been arrested, with allegations stating that he conspired to facilitate purchases of Libyan oil between prohibited entities and the People’s Republic of China, contrary to the United Nations Act. The RCMP claims that the pair attempted to export millions of barrels of crude oil to China, potentially earning millions of dollars in commission from these transactions.

The conspiracy involved the circumvention of legislation by hiding the sellers and buyers through shell companies, aiming to provide Chinese military equipment to Libya, particularly to Gen. Khalifa Haftar’s faction. The drones in question possess significant attack capabilities.

The alleged crimes took place between December 1, 2018, and July 31, 2021, in Montreal, Brossard, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and China. The charges also mention a third person, James Kuang Chi Wan, as part of the conspiracy.

Both Mhaouek and Sayeh were former employees of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Montreal. While at ICAO, they are believed to have conspired and had access to a vast network of connections. The ICAO has condemned any actions inconsistent with its values and has pledged to uphold Canada’s laws and regulations.

The alleged offences violated U.N. sanctions related to the Libyan civil war, prohibiting the supply of military equipment to any factions involved in the conflict or assisting in financing those groups. The investigation was complex, and charges were laid after diplomatic immunity within their functions at work was lifted by the ICAO.

The RCMP continues to investigate foreign interference attempts, especially activities by or for foreign actors in Canada, to ensure the country’s security and stability.

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Source: RCMP/Montreal Gazette