Secret UAE Network Helps Sudan’s RSF Evade Sanctions, Report Finds
Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have tapped into a hidden financial empire in Dubai, exploiting loopholes in the global system to bankroll war efforts despite international sanctions, a new report by The Sentry reveals.
The investigation outlines how Sudanese and Emirati businessmen created at least 16 companies in the UAE, covering gold trading, logistics, and consulting. These firms acted as front operations, enabling the RSF to bypass restrictions, acquire military equipment, and launder conflict gold from Darfur into international markets.
One key figure is Mazin Fadlalla, accused of purchasing 200 Toyota trucks in 2019 that were converted into RSF combat vehicles. He also co-owned several gold-trading firms in Dubai, including Mamlaket Kush. Another central actor, Naser Al Hammadi, ran Capital Tap Holding until its sanctioning by the US Treasury. Despite its sale to Abozer Habib, the group continued procurement activities via subsidiaries such as Horizon and Natwest Logistics.
The report also implicates Essa Al Marri, tied to dissolved gold firms Blaze Gold and Glow Gold. While these companies were shut down, The Sentry warns their operators can quickly establish new fronts to continue sanction evasion.
The watchdog urges tighter global scrutiny and expanded sanctions, stressing that without dismantling the Dubai-based financial networks, the RSF will continue to draw strength from illicit gold revenues.
