In a shocking twist, a Chinese national once residing in California stands accused of exporting weapons to North Korea, highlighting a grave international security breach.
At a Glance
- Shenghua Wen, a Chinese national, was arrested for allegedly exporting guns and ammunition to North Korea.
- Wen reportedly received $2 million from North Korea to purchase military gear.
- 50,000 rounds of ammunition were seized from a van outside Wen’s residence.
- Wen faces up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted of conspiracy to violate economic laws.
The Arrest and Allegations
Shenghua Wen, a Chinese national previously living in the United States, was apprehended based on accusations of covertly supplying North Korea with firearms and ammunition. The operation reportedly launched from his base in Ontario, California, and involved shipping items discreetly through Long Beach to Hong Kong before reaching North Korean hands.
Alongside guns, federal officials uncovered 50,000 rounds of 9mm ammunition in a vehicle outside Wen’s home. It is alleged that North Korean intermediaries funneled $2 million into Wen’s operation. He supposedly acquired military equipment with the assistance of North Korean administrative connections.
Legal Complications and Consequences
Wen is charged under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which he allegedly violated through his dealings. If found guilty, Wen could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. Importantly, these actions breach stringent international regulations that prohibit the export of arms to countries like North Korea.
While investigating the case, authorities retrieved evidence from Wen’s iPhone suggesting plans to support the North Korean military drone program. These included intentions to dispatch a civilian plane engine equipped for military drone advancements.
Broader Implications and Network
Wen’s case is not isolated, as the Justice Department has unearthed other similar activities linked to North Korea. He reportedly used straw purchasers to obtain the weapons, leveraging his illegal status in the United States to maneuver around export restrictions.
Wen, who admits to past visa issues, was ordered out of the US in 2018 yet remains stateside. His network purportedly ties back to meetings with North Korean officials in China. During these encounters, he received directives for procuring American military technology.
Sources:
- North Korea funneled millions to Chinese migrant for weapons — and tried to buy uniforms for ‘surprise attack’ against the South: feds
- Chinese man in U.S. charged with sending weapons to North Korea
