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The RCMP has uncovered a conspiracy related to the illegal sale of Chinese drones and other military equipment destined for Libya by two suspects who at the time were employed by the International Civil Aviation Organization, a UN agency in Montreal.
The suspects are alleged to have used foreign front companies to avoid international sanctions, the RCMP said in a press release Tuesday.
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Conspiracy charges have been filed against Fathi Ben Ahmed Mhaouek, 61, of Ste-Catherine and Mahmud Mohamed Elsuwaye Sayeh, 37. The former has been arrested and will appear Tuesday at the Montreal courthouse.
“It is alleged 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 statement said.
It also noted that Sayeh allegedly used a scheme to conceal the sellers and buyers of military equipment.
“The equipment is subject to UN sanctions related to Libya,” the statement said. “Sayeh is still wanted by police authorities and a warrant has been issued for his arrest. A Red Notice has been issued by INTERPOL.”
The ICAO, which is based in Montreal, was created in 1944 and aims to “achieve the sustainable growth of the global civil aviation system.”
It says it helps 193 countries “share their skies for their mutual benefit.”
The agency develops policies and standards related to international civil aviation, performs studies and builds aviation capacity, among other things.
“Since it was established in 1944, ICAO’s support and coordination has helped countries to diplomatically and technically realize a uniquely rapid and dependable network of global air mobility, connecting families, cultures and businesses all over the world, and promoting sustainable growth and socio-economic prosperity wherever aircraft fly,” the agency website says.
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