RCMP investigating ‘networks’ connected to man charged with violating Russia sanctions

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have confirmed that they are currently conducting investigations into the networks associated with a Russian national, Anton Trofimov, who has been charged with illegally exporting goods to Russia. Trofimov, a resident of Toronto, was arrested on May 5 and is facing charges related to exporting restricted goods to Russia, as well as exporting goods for the purpose of manufacturing weapons. These charges are in violation of the federal Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations that were implemented in response to the conflict in Ukraine.

Additionally, Trofimov is also facing a charge under the Criminal Code for possessing the proceeds of property obtained through criminal activity. The alleged incidents took place between July 17, 2022, and December 8, 2022. The RCMP confirmed Trofimov’s arrest following a report by CBC News, but details of the investigation were revealed during a news conference held on Friday.

Chief Supt. Chris Leather mentioned during the news conference that the investigation into Trofimov is international in scope and involves multiple ports outside of Canada. Various international law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, have been collaborating on this case. It is alleged that Trofimov was procuring electronic components from various countries and shipping them to Asia before ultimately sending them to Russia.

In addition to his residence in Toronto, Trofimov also has a home address in Hong Kong and serves as the director of Asia Pacific Links Ltd., a Hong Kong-based company that has been sanctioned by the United States and the U.K. According to Open Sanctions, the company is a major supplier of microelectronic components to Russian companies, particularly for the production of Orlan-10 drones used by the Russian military for reconnaissance and airstrikes in Ukraine.

While the RCMP did not disclose the specific components that Trofimov is accused of exporting to Russia, they did mention that these components could have both civilian and military applications. It remains unclear whether these components were utilized in the Russian military operations. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to dismantle the network associated with Trofimov.

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