White men, in Sudanese military fatigues and in the middle of Khartoum. Since the beginning of 2022, photos and videos reproducing this kind of scene have multiplied on Sudanese social networks. Who are these men?
Le Monde investigated them in partnership with the OCCRP (Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project), an international network of investigative journalists.
Documents that we have authenticated, as well as customs declarations between Russia and Sudan, show how the men of Wagner, a paramilitary group close to Vladimir Putin, settled in the country. They also reveal the high level of collusion between Russian mercenaries and part of the Sudanese political and military power.
The goal? Take advantage of the gold resources of the country, the third largest producer in Africa, without paying any percentage to Sudan as required by law. In exchange, Russia, via Wagner, provides the Sudanese authorities with law enforcement equipment and men for the training of its soldiers.
Join us and ask us about our Discord dedicated to investigation : https://discord.gg/5avVYWpD
Sources :
Official website of the Central Bank of Sudan
Sudanese Armed Forces Facebook Page
Rapid Support Forces Youtube Channel
Amnesty International report on the violence in Sudan, March 2020
Human Rights Watch report on human rights abuses, April 2022