An investigation by CBC’s visual analysis team has uncovered the presence of firearms bearing the emblem of a Canadian arms manufacturer in the possession of a paramilitary group in Sudan linked to civilian massacres. The civil conflict that began on April 15, 2023, has caused extensive damage to civilian infrastructure, devastated healthcare facilities, and triggered a major humanitarian crisis, with an estimated 150,000 fatalities and over 12 million internally displaced civilians. The city of El Fasher in Darfur, previously a stronghold of the Sudanese Armed Forces, has become the focal point of the conflict, besieged for over 500 days by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), accused of ethnic cleansing.
On Oct. 26, 2023, El Fasher fell to the RSF, leading to reports of civilian massacres. Multiple images shared online and verified by CBC depict RSF fighters in Sudan wielding rifles marked with the logo of Sterling Cross Defense Systems, a company based in Abbotsford, British Columbia, known for manufacturing firearms and ammunition.
Through geolocation and emblem verification, CBC confirmed the presence of Sterling Cross’s XLCR sniper rifles in Sudan since 2023. The investigation team identified at least nine instances of rifles with the Sterling Cross logo in photos and videos. Furthermore, the team found evidence of Sterling Cross’s commercial operations and past contracts with the Canadian government.
While Sterling Cross declined to address specific questions regarding the situation in Sudan, the company emphasized its compliance with Canadian regulations, including the Export and Import Permits Act. Global Affairs Canada reiterated its commitment to thorough scrutiny of arms exports and vowed consequences for any violations.
Experts highlighted the role of international arms brokers in prolonging the conflict in Sudan, with reports of weapons from various countries, including Canada, reaching the RSF. Concerns were raised about the transparency and accountability of Canada’s arms export monitoring system, with calls for improved mechanisms to track and regulate the flow of weapons.
The investigation shed light on the complex web of arms trade involving multiple countries and the challenges in enforcing arms control measures to prevent weapons from reaching conflict zones. The need for enhanced oversight and stricter regulations in the arms industry was emphasized by experts and former Canadian officials.
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