RCMP uncovers alleged plot by 2 Montreal men to illegally sell drones, equipment to Libya
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) says it has uncovered a plot by two men in Montreal to sell Chinese drones and military equipment to Libya illegally.
The crimes were allegedly committed by the two people while working for the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized United Nations agency with headquarters in Montreal.
"They essentially attempted to broker a deal between China and Libya when it comes to Chinese military equipment, specifically Chinese drones with large attack capabilities," said RCMP Sgt. Charles Poirier. "We're not talking small drones; we're talking small planes that have the capacity to carry missiles."
The RCMP noted Tuesday, "using foreign front companies, the individuals behind the conspiracy allegedly circumvented existing international sanctions to facilitate illegal activities."
Conspiracy charges have been filed against Fathi Ben Ahmed Mhaouek, 61, and Mahmud Mohamed Elsuwaye Sayeh, 37, in accordance with the United Nations Act and its Regulations Implementing the United Nations Resolutions and Imposing Special Economic Measures on Libya.
"They [also] attempted to export Libyan crude oil from Libya to China," said Poirier, adding this is also considered illegal in Canada under the UN Act.
He confirmed the two no longer work for ICAO, where they met.
"Part of the conspiracy took place while they were at ICAO," said Poirier. "At the time, because of their employment, they benefited from functional diplomatic immunity."
He explains that the RCMP had to ask the agency to lift its diplomatic immunity in order to lay criminal charges.
"ICAO is fully cooperating with the RCMP investigation of the individuals involved in the complaint, who left the organization a number of years ago," the agency said. "ICAO strongly condemns any actions of individuals that are inconsistent with the organization's values. ICAO is committed to upholding Canada's laws and regulations, the UN Standards of Conduct and its own stringent code of ethics."
After an investigation that started in 2022, Mhaouek was arrested at his home on Tuesday by police and faces charges of conspiring "to facilitate purchases of Libyan oil between prohibited entities and the People's Republic of China contrary to the United Nations Act."
He is expected to appear Tuesday afternoon at the Montreal courthouse.
Sayeh, on the other hand, is considered wanted by police authorities, and a Canada-wide warrant has been issued for his arrest.
"According to the investigation, Mahmud Mohamed Elsuwaye Sayeh allegedly used a scheme that concealed military equipment sellers and buyers," the RCMP notes. "The equipment is subject to UN sanctions related to Libya."
A Red Notice has also been issued by INTERPOL.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Judge in Trump's hush money trial threatened to throw witness out of court for behavior on stand
Michael Cohen testified Monday that he stole tens of thousands of dollars from his ex-boss Donald Trump’s company, an admission defence lawyers hope to use to undermine Cohen’s credibility.
What is BORG drinking, and why is it a dangerous trend? An expert explains
If you've been to a party lately and haven't seen someone drinking a BORG, you're likely not partying with college students.
The world's best airline is paying staff a bonus of 8 months' salary
Singapore Airlines will reward its employees with a bonus worth nearly eight months of salary, a person familiar with the matter told CNN on Friday.
Oilers win Game 7 over Canucks, advance to Western Conference Final
The Edmonton Oilers weathered a late Vancouver Canucks charge on Monday night, beating the hosts 3-2 to win their seven-game second-round playoff series in the decisive showdown.
McGill says pro-Palestinian protest outside senior administrator's home 'crosses the line'
McGill University has denounced a pro-Palestinian protest held Sunday outside the home of one of its senior administrators.
Red Lobster probes 'endless shrimp' losses after bankruptcy filing
U.S.-based restaurant chain Red Lobster has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in a Florida court after securing $100 million in financing commitments from its existing lenders, the company said on Sunday.
Katy Perry sings goodbye to 'American Idol'
Katy Perry said her goodbyes on 'American Idol' after seven seasons. On Sunday night’s live 'idol' season finale, a medley of Perry's hit songs were performed, including 'Teenage Dream,' 'Dark Horse' and 'California Gurls.'
Microsoft's AI chatbot will 'recall' everything you do on a PC
Microsoft wants laptop users to get so comfortable with its artificial intelligence chatbot that it will remember everything you're doing on your computer and help figure out what you want to do next.
Judge cites error, will reopen sentencing hearing for man who attacked Nancy Pelosi's husband
A federal judge will reopen the sentencing hearing for the man who broke into Nancy Pelosi's San Francisco home and bludgeoned her husband with a hammer after the judge failed to allow him to speak during his court appearance last week.