Shenghua Wen, a Chinese man living in the U.S. illegally, was arrested for illegally exporting guns and ammunition to North Korea, as well as planning to send other technology to the country. He conducted the illicit trade while living in Ontario, California on an expired visa. At least two shipments of firearms and ammunition were sent to North Korea through Hong Kong, hidden in shipping containers. Law enforcement seized some material before it could be shipped, including 50,000 rounds of ammunition and eavesdropping devices found in Wen’s home. Wen had met with North Korean officials in China who instructed him to send goods to North Korea, which is under trade restrictions. He purchased guns through straw buyers in Texas and drove them to California, working with other unnamed co-conspirators. The North Korean officials also requested civilian aircraft engines and military uniforms from Wen, indicating plans to potentially launch a surprise attack against South Korea. Wen is charged with conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which carries up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Online court records did not show Wen’s case, and it is unclear if he has legal representation.
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