Indian national indicted for illegal export of US aviation components to Russia
Sanjay Kaushik Indicted for Illegal Export of Aviation Parts to Russia
Overview
In Oregon, USA, Sanjay Kaushik, a 57-year-old Indian national, has been charged with conspiring to illegally export aviation components to Russia. These components have both civilian and military uses, and the actions violate the Export Control Reform Act.
Details of the Case
Kaushik attempted to export a navigation and flight control system from Oregon to Russia via India. He was arrested in Miami, Florida, on October 17, after a warrant was issued by the District of Oregon. The plot began in March 2023, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Kaushik and his co-conspirators falsely claimed the components were for his Indian company, but they were actually intended for Russian users.
Specific Incident
Kaushik and his associates acquired an Attitude Heading Reference System (AHRS) from an Oregon supplier, claiming it was for a civilian helicopter in India. However, the component was intercepted before leaving the US. Exporting such items to Russia requires a license from the US Department of Commerce, which they falsely obtained.
Legal Consequences
If convicted, Kaushik could face up to 20 years in prison and fines of USD 1 million per count. The final sentence will be determined by a federal judge.
Investigation and Prosecution
The case was announced by key figures from the Justice Department and the Department of Commerce. The investigation is led by BIS Portland, with prosecution by Assistant US Attorney Gregory R. Nyhus and others. This is part of Task Force KleptoCapture, aimed at enforcing sanctions against Russia.
Doubts Revealed
Indicted
Indicted means officially charged with a crime. It means that Sanjay Kaushik is accused of doing something illegal.
Illegal Export
Illegal export means sending goods to another country without following the rules or laws. In this case, it refers to sending aviation parts to Russia without permission.
Aviation Parts
Aviation parts are components used in airplanes and other flying vehicles. They are important for making sure planes work safely.
Oregon
Oregon is a state in the United States of America. It is located on the west coast, above California.
Export Control Reform Act
The Export Control Reform Act is a law in the USA that controls how certain items can be sent to other countries. It helps protect national security by regulating exports.
Miami
Miami is a city in the state of Florida, USA. It is known for its beaches and is located in the southeastern part of the country.
Co-conspirators
Co-conspirators are people who work together to do something illegal. In this case, they helped Sanjay Kaushik with the illegal export.
Task Force KleptoCapture
Task Force KleptoCapture is a group that works to catch people breaking laws related to sanctions against Russia. They help enforce rules to prevent illegal activities.
Sanctions
Sanctions are penalties or restrictions put on a country to make them change their behavior. They can include things like stopping trade or freezing assets.
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