African Church Information Service
Crespo Sebunya
2 June 2003
Kampala — A six man Judicial Commission of Inquiry, appointed here by the government to investigate illegal exploitation of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) resources, has also highlighted Uganda's pivotal role in promoting international arms traffickers.
The Commission, led by Justice David Porter, a British expatriate judge, showed how one Victor Bout, described in the report as "transnational criminal", is supported by Ugandan institutions, and how his easy access to state facilities has enhanced his role in arms trafficking.
The report said Bout has registered seven airlines with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) namely, Odessa Air, ACS, Air Cess, Central African Air, AirPass, Military and Nyota Airlines.
The Commission noted that 97 flights of Bout's firms, from Entebbe to eastern Congo, were recorded by CAA between 1998 to 2002.
Also noted was the increase in business activity by East Europeans in the region through Uganda. A United Nations (UN) panel that investigated illegal exploitation of DRC resources, established a link between some foreign-owned Coltan mining companies and arms importation into the region.
The team noted that arrangements allowed arms either to be bartered for mining concessions, or through direct payments. A web of firms, and in most cases joint ventures, facilitated arms imports.
Nevertheless, Porter Commission found no basis to support the allegations.
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