Russian National Arrested in Japan Over Illegal Exports; Allegedly Hid Destination of Watercraft, Other Items
japannews.yomiuri.co.jp

OSAKA — A Russian national was arrested Wednesday on suspicion of illegally exporting to Russia watercraft and an ship engine that could be diverted for military use.

cross-posted from: https://feddit.org/post/676704

The Osaka prefectural police arrested Andrey Sova, 38, from Suita in Osaka Prefecture. Sova is president of the Osaka-based trading company Astrade Co. in Chuo Ward, and was arrested on suspicion of violating the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Law.

According to a police announcement, Sova is suspected of exporting a total of 27 items worth about ¥43 million overall, including four watercraft, a marine engine, a trailer truck and a used motorcycle, from Osaka Nanko Port to Russia via South Korea in January 2023 without obtaining the Japanese government’s permission.

The suspect has not confirmed or denied the allegations, saying he will speak after consulting with his lawyer.

[Edit typo.]