The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said it uncovered a conspiracy orchestrated by two men in Montreal to illegally sell Chinese drone and military equipment to Libya.

The two individuals are alleged to have committed the crimes while working for the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a UN specialized agency based in Montreal.

Corporal Charles Boulay of the RCMP said, "They were essentially trying to broker a deal between China and Libya when it comes to Chinese military equipment, specifically Chinese drones with significant offensive capabilities." He added, "We're not talking about small drones, but small aircraft capable of carrying missiles."

On Tuesday, the RCMP noted that "using foreign front companies, the individuals behind the conspiracy are alleged to have circumvented current international sanctions to facilitate illegal activities."

Charges of conspiracy were laid against Fathi Ben Ahmed Mahouk (61 years old) and Mahmoud Mohammed Al-Suaihi Saiah (37 years old) under the UN act and its regulations for UN resolutions and specific economic measures against Libya.

Boulay stated, "They also tried to [export] Libyan crude oil from Libya to China," adding that this is also considered illegal in Canada under UN law.

He confirmed that the two are no longer employed by the International Civil Aviation Organization, where they met.

Boulay said, "Part of the conspiracy took place while they were at the International Civil Aviation Organization." He explained that at that time, due to their work, they benefited from functional diplomatic immunity.

He clarified that the RCMP had to request the agency to lift their diplomatic immunity in order to lay criminal charges.

Following an investigation that began in 2022, police arrested Mahouk at his home on Tuesday and he faces charges of conspiracy "to facilitate the purchase of Libyan oil between prohibited entities and the People's Republic of China in violation of UN law."

He is expected to appear in Montreal court on Tuesday afternoon.

On the other hand, Saiah is considered wanted by police authorities, and a Canada-wide arrest warrant has been issued for his apprehension.

The RCMP indicates that "according to the investigation, Mahmoud Mohammed Al-Suaihi Saiah allegedly used a scheme to conceal sellers and buyers of military equipment." It added that "the equipment is subject to UN sanctions related to Libya."

Interpol has also issued a red notice.