Chinese Weapons in Sudan: Amnesty International Report Implicates Beijing and UAE

A damning report from Amnesty International reveals Chinese weapons, delivered via the United Arab Emirates, are being used by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces. The findings put Beijing under scrutiny and escalate regional tensions.

Chinese-Made Weapons Fueling Sudan’s Conflict

As the war between Sudan’s regular army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues, Amnesty International’s investigation exposes opaque arms supply chains. The NGO reports that Chinese-made military equipment, delivered through the UAE, has reached Sudanese paramilitary groups. These revelations indirectly implicate China while reigniting regional diplomatic tensions.

Chinese Bombs Found in Khartoum and Darfur

Amnesty International identified Chinese GB50A guided bombs and 155mm AH-4 shells among debris from RSF attacks in Darfur and Khartoum. These munitions, produced by state-owned defense conglomerate Norinco, allegedly entered Sudan via the UAE. If confirmed, this supply chain would violate the UN arms embargo on Sudan.

The UAE, accused by Amnesty of facilitating weapons transfers between China and Sudanese paramilitaries, denies involvement. Emirati officials called the allegations “baseless and unsubstantiated.” However, SIPRI data shows Abu Dhabi was the only known importer of Chinese AH-4 shells in 2019, strengthening suspicions of indirect RSF support.

Diplomatic Fallout and Humanitarian Crisis

The report’s publication comes amid escalating violence, including drone strikes on strategic locations in Port Sudan. These attacks, attributed to the RSF, have displaced thousands from previously safe areas. In response, Sudan severed diplomatic ties with the UAE, accusing it of arming their enemies. China, now implicated in the supply chain, has urged its citizens to leave Sudan immediately.

The conflict between army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo (RSF leader) has killed tens of thousands and displaced over 13 million since April 2023. Amnesty’s report highlights foreign powers’ role in prolonging the conflict, raising questions about their moral and legal responsibility.