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The US government has imposed sanctions on a network of several persons and entities accused of recruiting former Colombian soldiers to fight for and train a militia force in Sudan that Washington accuses of genocidal acts.

Group Makeup

Announcing the measures on this week, the Treasury stated the network was largely composed of Colombian citizens and firms.

Hundreds of former Colombian military personnel have allegedly journeyed to the conflict in Sudan to combat beside the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a group linked to severe violations including ethnically targeted slaughter and widespread kidnappings.

Emergence of Involvement

The involvement of Colombian fighters first came to light last year, following an report which disclosed that more than 300 former soldiers had been hired to participate in the war – an event that resulted in an unusual statement of regret from the Colombian government.

Former Colombian military have historically been seen as among the world’s most sought-after mercenaries due to their vast combat experience gleaned from years of internal conflict, training on Western military gear, and superior tactical education.

Reported Actions

In the Sudanese theater, the contractors have been accused of teaching underage fighters, instructed militiamen in drone operation, and fought directly on the frontlines. One source was quoted as saying that working with child soldiers was "awful and crazy" but commented that "sadly, that is the nature of conflict".

Sanctioned Individuals

Among those sanctioned was a retired Colombian officer, a individual with dual citizenship and ex-soldier operating from the United Arab Emirates. The Treasury accused him a central role in hiring and sending mercenaries to Sudan. His wife, Claudia Oliveros, was penalized as well.

Also on the sanctions list was Duque Botero, a dual Colombian-Spanish citizen who authorities say managed a business accused of handling funds and payroll for the scheme. "Recently, companies in the United States associated with Duque conducted multiple financial transactions, worth millions," the government release stated.

Individual Mónica Muñoz Ucros was the other individual to be penalized, with the company she managed alleged to have wire transfers connected to Duque and his operations.

"The United States again calls on foreign parties to stop giving financial and military support to the warring parties," the agency stated.

Expert Analysis

Elizabeth Dickinson, from a conflict think tank, labeled the sanctions as a "very significant" milestone, stating that "identifying the recruiters is the correct approach".

She added that, Colombia recently passed a piece of legislation approving the International Convention Against the Recruitment and Use of Mercenaries, designed to limit years of participation by its nationals in overseas wars and change domestic defense strategy.

Sean McFate, a scholar on the subject, advised additional measures, stating that "sanctions are necessary but insufficient for addressing widespread use of contractors".

"It’s an illicit economy and based out of Dubai, which is largely insulated from sanctions," he said. The UAE has been frequently alleged of arming the RSF, claims it rejects. "Expect more Colombian mercenaries," McFate warned.