A high-profile trial began on September 5 in Stockholm, Sweden, involving two former executives of a Swedish oil exploration and production company, Lundin Oil, who are facing charges of complicity in war crimes in Sudan two decades ago. Ian Lundin, the former chairman of the company, and Alex Schneiter, its former CEO, are accused of supporting the Sudanese government during the tumultuous period of the Sudanese civil war.
Prosecutors have alleged that the two executives played a significant role in creating the conditions necessary for the company's oil operations in Sudan, which ultimately led to the systematic targeting of civilians and violations of international humanitarian law.
The civil war in Sudan, which lasted from 1983 to 2005, pitted the Muslim-dominated north against the Christian south, resulting in widespread conflict and suffering. Additionally, the Darfur conflict in western Sudan erupted in 2003, causing further turmoil and displacement. The conflict eventually led to South Sudan gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, becoming the world's youngest nation.
Lundin and Schneiter vehemently deny the charges brought against them. Ian Lundin, while speaking to reporters at the Stockholm District Court, declared the accusations to be "completely false" and expressed his anticipation of defending himself in court.
In a statement, the prosecution contended that the two executives held senior positions within Lundin Oil and played a pivotal role in reaching an agreement related to oil exploration and extraction in southern Sudan. This agreement involved the payment of fees and a share in future profits.
The prosecution asserts that between May 1999 and March 2003, the Sudanese government conducted military operations in Block 5A and its surrounding areas, with the aim of securing territories for oil prospecting. During these operations, grave violations of international humanitarian law were allegedly committed.
Omar al-Bashir, the former dictator of Sudan, who was accused of presiding over these alleged war crimes, was toppled from power in April 2019 following a popular uprising.
Lundin Oil operated as part of a consortium of companies exploring Block 5A, which included Petronas Carigali Overseas of Malaysia, OMV (Sudan) Exploration GmbH of Austria, and the Sudanese state-owned oil company, Sudapet Ltd.
The prosecution is seeking severe penalties in this landmark case. They are requesting that the two executives be banned from conducting any business activities for a period of 10 years. Additionally, they are seeking a fine of 3 mn kronor ($272,250) to be imposed on the Swedish company, Lundin Oil. Furthermore, 1.4 bn kronor ($127 mn) in economic benefits that allegedly accrued to Lundin Oil due to crimes committed as part of its business activities should be confiscated.
The trial is expected to continue until early 2026, with no announcement yet regarding the date for a verdict.
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