U.S. Attorney E. Martin Estrada | U.S. Department of Justice
A man from San Bernardino County has been arrested on charges of exporting firearms, ammunition, and military items to North Korea. Shenghua Wen, 41, a Chinese national residing illegally in the United States, faces accusations of conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. This felony could result in a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.
Wen was apprehended this morning and is scheduled to make his first court appearance today at the United States District Court in Los Angeles. His arraignment is anticipated in the upcoming weeks.
United States Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized the importance of protecting the nation from foreign threats: "We have arrested a defendant who allegedly acted at the direction of the North Korean government by conspiring to illegally ship firearms, ammunition, and other military equipment to North Korea."
FBI Los Angeles Assistant Director Akil Davis highlighted the significance of this arrest: "Not only did the investigative team prevent additional restricted items going to the North Korean regime, but they gathered valuable intelligence for the United States and our allies."
According to an affidavit filed on November 26 with the complaint, Wen acquired firearms, ammunition, and export-controlled technology intending to ship them to North Korea. These actions violated U.S. sanctions against North Korea. Law enforcement alleges that Wen concealed these items inside shipping containers that traveled from Long Beach through Hong Kong to North Korea.
In August and September, authorities seized devices intended for military use at Wen's home and approximately 50,000 rounds of 9mm ammunition meant for exportation. Messages found on Wen's iPhone indicated previous discussions with co-conspirators about shipping military-grade equipment overseas.
Shawn Gibson from Homeland Security Investigations remarked on their commitment: "The results of today’s arrest and search warrants are a testament to HSI and our partner agencies' commitment to national security."
Bryan D. Denny from DCIS noted: "Mr. Wen’s arrest is a significant advancement in our collective efforts towards protecting our national security."
Gregory Dunlap from OEE commented on international implications: "OEE is committed to working with our federal partners to identify and disrupt illegal export schemes that undermine regional stability."
The FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; DCIS; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security are investigating this case.
Prosecution will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah E. Gerdes and Trial Attorney Ahmed Almudallal.
A criminal complaint contains allegations that must be proven in court as every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
