A Canadian arms manufacturer’s emblematic weapons have been discovered in the possession of a paramilitary group in Sudan linked to civilian massacres, as per analysis from CBC’s visual investigations unit. The eruption of a civil war on April 15, 2023, has caused widespread destruction to civilian infrastructure in Sudan, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. The conflict has resulted in an estimated 150,000 fatalities and the displacement of over 12 million civilians. El Fasher, a city considered the final bastion of the Sudanese Armed Forces in Darfur, has become the focal point of Sudan’s escalating conflict, besieged by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) accused of ethnic cleansing.
Following the fall of El Fasher to the RSF on Oct. 26, reports emerged of civilian massacres. Multiple images circulating online and confirmed by CBC depict RSF fighters wielding rifles featuring the logo of Sterling Cross Defense Systems, a company based in Abbotsford, British Columbia. The CBC visual investigations team authenticated these images by geolocating them in Sudan and matching the emblems and camouflage patterns to those used in the region. Additionally, the distinctive logo on the Sterling Cross XLCR rifles further confirmed their presence in Sudan since at least 2023.
Sterling Cross declined to address specific inquiries concerning its weapons’ presence in Sudan and international arms sales, citing alignment with Global Affairs Canada’s policies. The company operates under the Export and Import Permits Act regulations. Global Affairs Canada emphasized its thorough review process for permit applications related to controlled items and pledged legal repercussions for any violations, including fines and criminal prosecution.
Established in 2008, Sterling Cross initially served as a broker for international militaries before diversifying into commercial arms production in 2011. The company’s operations extend beyond Canadian borders, including engagements in the Middle East. Notably, Sterling Cross had prior contracts with the Canadian government, involving the delivery of ammunition to the Department of National Defence.
The proliferation of foreign weaponry in Sudan’s conflict, including Canadian-manufactured arms, has been highlighted as a contributing factor to the conflict’s protraction. While it remains unclear how Sterling Cross-branded weapons entered Sudan, experts suggest re-routing mechanisms through countries like the United Arab Emirates. The UAE has been implicated in supplying arms to the RSF, despite official denials. The flow of weapons from Canada to conflict zones is subject to increased scrutiny under new legislation, aiming to hold Canadian entities accountable for any violations.
In light of the ongoing crisis, calls for enhanced accountability and monitoring mechanisms within Canada’s arms export system have been raised. Experts emphasize the need for stricter regulations and transparency to prevent the diversion of arms to conflict zones. Despite existing legal frameworks, the challenge lies in addressing the complex network of arms transfers facilitated by intermediary channels, necessitating a more robust oversight approach.
