Colombian Mercenaries Linked to Atrocities in Sudan

A recent investigation has uncovered a network of companies in the United Kingdom involved in the recruitment of Colombian mercenaries to fight alongside Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group accused of severe human rights violations, including genocide. The investigation highlights a one-bedroom apartment in north London linked to Zeuz Global, a company registered by two Colombian nationals, Álvaro Andrés Quijano Becerra and Claudia Viviana Oliveros Forero, who were sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury for their roles in this operation. Hundreds of former Colombian soldiers have reportedly participated in violent actions in Sudan, including the RSF's takeover of El Fasher, which has resulted in an estimated 60,000 deaths.

The Guardian

Álvaro Andrés Quijano Becerra, a dual Colombian-Italian national and retired Colombian military officer, is identified as a central figure in the recruitment of mercenaries. He co-founded a Bogotá-based employment agency that facilitated the deployment of these soldiers. His wife, Claudia Viviana Oliveros Forero, and Mateo Andrés Duque Botero, another dual national sanctioned by the U.S., are also implicated in managing the financial aspects of this network. The U.S. Treasury has reported that Duque's firms engaged in numerous wire transfers totaling millions of dollars to support this operation.

The Guardian

Experts have raised significant concerns regarding the ability of individuals sanctioned by the U.S. to establish and operate a company in the UK. Mike Lewis, a former member of the UN panel of experts on Sudan, criticized the lack of rigorous checks in the UK company registration process, stating that it is easier to set up a company than to join a gym. He emphasized that the presence of sanctioned individuals operating from the UK raises alarm about the potential for criminal enterprises to engage with legitimate businesses. The British government has recently introduced measures for mandatory identity verification for company directors, aiming to enhance oversight.

The Guardian

British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the RSF for its systematic killings and torture, while the Colombian government has issued an apology regarding the involvement of its nationals in the mercenary operations. The United Arab Emirates, which has been accused of arming the RSF, has denied these allegations, despite being linked to the hiring of Colombian mercenaries.

The Guardian

• “It is of major concern that the key individuals the US government claims are directing this mercenary supply have been able to set up a UK company operating from a flat in north London, and even to claim that they’re resident in the UK.” — Mike Lewis, Researcher

The Guardian

• “Having a UK company like this is a passport for criminals to do business with legitimate counterparts.” — Mike Lewis, Researcher

The Guardian

• “We recently sanctioned RSF commanders for their role in the atrocities in El Fasher,” — UAE Government Statement

The Guardian

While the investigation indicates that the RSF's actions have resulted in significant civilian casualties, the exact number of deaths and the full extent of the Colombian mercenaries' involvement remain unclear. Additionally, Companies House has not confirmed the operational details of Zeuz Global or the residency status of its directors.

The Guardian