In a significant legal move, Sudanese officials have expressed their strong disapproval of the military equipment network linked to the Port Sudan authorities. This reaction follows recent measures taken by Attorney General Dr. Hamad Saif Al-Shamsi, who has referred 13 suspects and 6 companies to the judiciary for legal violations related to military equipment. The evidence gathered, including confessions, underscores the steadfastness of the rule of law and institutional integrity.
Rejection of Exploitation
Sudanese leaders have vehemently condemned attempts by individuals affiliated with this military equipment network and their backers to exploit the opportunities provided by the UAE for residents and investors. They emphasized that such actions severely tarnish the reputation of Emirati hospitality and the foundational values of the nation. Ibrahim Al-Mirghani, Minister of Cabinet Affairs in the ‘Establishment’ government, noted that these practices do not reflect the character of the Sudanese people nor the integrity of the Sudanese community in the UAE, which is known for its adherence to the law and ethical standards. Al-Mirghani stated, “This event clearly reveals a tragic level of political and operational foolishness. How can a Sudanese party smuggle weapons through the United Arab Emirates while openly accusing it of arming its rival in the conflict? This absurd contradiction can only represent a conspiracy against the Sudanese people, desperately seeking to misuse the UAE’s logistical and financial position while hurling false accusations at it.” He further added, “The UAE is a sovereign nation with strict laws, and it will never allow its territory to be used as a conduit for weapon smuggling or to undermine stability.”
Recognition of Professionalism
Ambassador Abdul Rahman Sharafi, Sudan’s envoy to the UAE, highlighted that the UAE’s justice system exhibits no leniency when it comes to its security, sovereignty, and the integrity of its economic and financial systems. He pointed out that “the investigations have revealed systematic attempts to circumvent laws and exploit the advanced investment environment established by the UAE, which is both legally and morally reprehensible.” He insisted that the laws, designed to facilitate development and openness, must not be manipulated to facilitate illicit activities or gain unfair advantages at the expense of security and stability.
Calls for International Awareness
Ambassador Sharafi strongly rejected any attempts to exploit UAE territory, institutions, or financial systems for purposes that contravene its laws or undermine its sovereignty. He stated, “The UAE, representing a model of stability and openness, will never become a platform for unlawful activities or a stage for settling scores or advancing hidden agendas.” He noted that uncovering this network highlights a painful reality where factions are striving to escalate the ongoing conflict in Sudan, motivated by narrow personal or partisan interests, neglecting the suffering of the Sudanese people who endure violence, displacement, hunger, insecurity, and violations of civilian rights.
International Cooperation on Security Matters
Former Sudanese Ambassador to the UAE, Mohammed Amin Abdullah Al-Karib, commended the professional efforts made by competent authorities in the UAE, leading to the dismantling of a weapons smuggling network serving the Port Sudan government. He remarked, “This significant security achievement underscores the advanced level of competence and preparedness of Emirati security agencies, reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to combating organized crime, particularly illicit arms trafficking, which poses a grave threat to regional and global security.” Al-Karib added that this swift action reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to preserving peace and stability at both regional and international levels, bolstering international efforts to cease hostilities and enhance stability in Sudan.