A Canadian arms manufacturer’s logo has been found on weapons used by a paramilitary group in Sudan linked to civilian massacres, as per analysis by CBC’s visual investigations unit. The civil war that started on April 15, 2023, has caused widespread destruction in Sudan, leading to a humanitarian crisis with an estimated 150,000 casualties and over 12 million internally displaced people. El Fasher, the final stronghold of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in Darfur, has become the focal point of the conflict in Sudan, surrounded by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) accused of ethnic cleansing for over 500 days.
After the RSF seized El Fasher on Oct. 26, reports emerged of civilian massacres. Visual evidence, including photos shared online and verified by CBC, shows RSF fighters wielding rifles bearing the logo of Sterling Cross Defense Systems, a firearms and ammunition company based in Abbotsford, B.C. These images have been circulating since at least 2023 in Sudan, according to research groups like War Noir and Streaking Delilah.
CBC’s visual investigations team authenticated the images by geo-locating them in Sudan and matching the emblems and designs to those found in Sudan. The distinctive Sterling Cross XLCR rifle, identifiable by its logo on the lower receiver above the magazine well, has been prominently seen in various photos and videos.
An RSF video posted on Oct. 5, 2024, during the battles in Khartoum, showcased a fighter carrying a Sterling Cross rifle with the logo visible, indicating a consistent presence of these weapons in Sudan. Further investigations have identified multiple instances of Sterling Cross-branded weapons in Sudan.
When approached for comments, Sterling Cross refrained from addressing specific inquiries regarding their operations in Sudan or international arms sales overseen by Global Affairs Canada. Aimee Byrne, the company’s director of operations, asserted that Sterling Cross aligns with Canadian regulations and is subject to the Export and Import Permits Act.
Global Affairs Canada responded to CBC’s queries by stating that all controlled item permit applications are thoroughly evaluated under a stringent risk assessment framework. The department emphasized its commitment to enforcing legal requirements and holding accountable any violations, including fines, goods seizure, and potential criminal charges.
Sterling Cross, founded in 2008 and based in Abbotsford, primarily operates as a broker for international militaries, expanding into rifle and ammunition production since 2011. The company’s connections extend to the Middle East, although specific details on its international dealings remain undisclosed.
Canada’s arms embargo on Sudan since 2004, along with sanctions targeting individuals and entities implicated in the conflict since 2024, underscores the country’s stance on arms proliferation in conflict zones. The presence of Canadian weaponry in Sudan, facilitated through countries like the United Arab Emirates, has raised concerns about compliance with international arms trade regulations.
According to experts, the lack of robust monitoring mechanisms in Canada’s arms export tracking system poses challenges in ensuring accountability for weapons transfers. The need for enhanced transparency and stricter regulations to prevent arms diversion to conflict zones like Sudan has been emphasized by stakeholders and former Canadian officials.
As calls for stricter enforcement and oversight resonate, the role of international brokers in facilitating the flow of weapons to conflict zones remains a focal point for addressing arms proliferation and ensuring compliance with global arms trade regulations.