Japanese gang leader attempted to sell nuclear material to Iran, says DOJ
Japanese National Charged with Attempting to Sell Nuclear Materials to Iran and Purchase Weapons for Terrorist Group
The U.S. Department of Justice has unsealed a superseding indictment in a Manhattan federal court, revealing shocking charges against a Japanese national. Takeshi Ebisawa, 60, is accused of attempting to sell nuclear materials, including those capable of producing a nuclear bomb, to Iran. Additionally, he allegedly tried to purchase a significant number of weapons to arm a terrorist group.
Ebisawa and his co-defendant, Somphop Singhasiri, 61, were previously charged in April 2022 with international narcotics trafficking and firearms offenses. The Department of Justice stated that both men could face multiple life sentences for their extensive list of criminal charges.
In the new superseding indictment, Ebisawa is once again charged, this time for attempting to sell nuclear materials to an individual he believed to be an Iranian general.
Consequences of Trafficking in Nuclear Materials
Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “The defendant stands accused of conspiring to sell weapons-grade nuclear material and lethal narcotics from Burma, and to purchase military weaponry on behalf of an armed insurgent group. It is chilling to imagine the consequences had these efforts succeeded, and the Justice Department will hold accountable those who traffic in these materials and threaten U.S. national security and international stability.”
Ebisawa’s intentions were revealed when he informed an undercover DEA agent and a DEA confidential source about his access to a substantial quantity of nuclear materials that he wished to sell. To support his claims, he even sent photos depicting substances with Geiger counters measuring radiation.
During the investigation, the undercover agent agreed to assist Ebisawa in brokering the sale of the nuclear materials to an individual posing as an Iranian general, who was actually an associate of the agent. The materials were intended for use in a nuclear weapons program.
In addition to the nuclear materials, Ebisawa also provided the undercover agent with a list of weapons he sought to purchase for arming a terrorist group in Burma. Although the indictment mentioned several co-conspirators, their identities were not disclosed.
Weapons Sought for Terrorist Group
The list of weapons Ebisawa aimed to acquire included:
- 5,000 AK-47s with 1 million rounds of 7.62x39mm ammo and 25,000 magazines
- 5,000 M-16s with 1 million rounds of 5.56x45mm ammo and 25,000 magazines
- 20 M-60 belt-fed machine guns with over 100,000 rounds of various types of 7.62x51mm ammo
- Dozens of various-sized mortar launches with thousands of projectiles
- Sniper rifles, RPGs, and surface-to-air missiles
The statement from the Department of Justice revealed that with the assistance of Thai authorities, the nuclear samples were seized and transferred to U.S. law enforcement authorities. A U.S. nuclear forensic laboratory examined the samples and confirmed the presence of detectable quantities of uranium, thorium, and plutonium. Notably, the laboratory determined that the plutonium found in the samples was weapons-grade, meaning it could be used in a nuclear weapon if produced in sufficient quantities.
What are the potential consequences of a terrorist organization possessing a nuclear bomb?
Al peace.”
The trafficking of nuclear materials is considered one of the most dangerous threats to global security. The potential for these materials to fall into the wrong hands, including terrorist groups, is a grave concern for governments around the world. A nuclear bomb in the possession of a terrorist organization could have devastating consequences, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. It is crucial that authorities remain vigilant and take decisive action to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and materials.
Combating the Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons
The international community has made significant efforts to combat the proliferation of nuclear weapons. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which entered into force in 1970, aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, promote disarmament, and facilitate the peaceful use of nuclear energy. It has been ratified by 190 countries, including Japan, Iran, and the United States.
Under the NPT, countries that possess nuclear weapons, such as the United States, Russia, and China, have committed to disarmament, while non-nuclear weapon states, like Japan and Iran, have agreed not to acquire nuclear weapons. The treaty also establishes a framework for international cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, under the condition that countries comply with safeguards administered by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Despite these international efforts, cases like the one involving Takeshi Ebisawa highlight the ongoing challenges in preventing illicit trafficking of nuclear materials. This case serves as a reminder that constant vigilance and cooperation between nations are necessary to counter the illicit proliferation of nuclear weapons and materials.
Strengthening International Cooperation
In the fight against the illicit trade of nuclear materials, international cooperation plays a vital role. Countries must work together to share intelligence, enhance border security, and enforce strict controls on the export and import of sensitive technologies. This includes monitoring and regulating trade in dual-use items, which have both civilian and military applications.
The role of international organizations, such as the IAEA, is paramount in ensuring compliance with international obligations and promoting transparency in peaceful nuclear activities. Inspections, monitoring, and verification mechanisms provided by the IAEA are essential tools in detecting and deterring illicit nuclear activities.
Conclusion
The recent charges against Takeshi Ebisawa and his alleged attempts to sell nuclear materials to Iran and purchase weapons for a terrorist group serve as a stark reminder of the continuous threat posed by nuclear proliferation. Governments worldwide must remain committed to upholding their obligations under the NPT and other relevant international agreements. Strengthening international cooperation, sharing intelligence, and improving border security are crucial steps in preventing the illicit trafficking of nuclear materials and safeguarding global security.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Now loading...