Report Uncovers Houthi Chemical Supply Chains via Horn of Africa

A new investigative report details how the Houthi militia may be obtaining sensitive chemical materials and propellant components through supply chains operating across the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea. The research highlights the activities of a company named "77 Logistics International" and its potential links to networks supplying materials for military applications.

Dr. Abdulqader Al-Kharraz presented preliminary findings, stating the report builds upon previous work concerning 58 shipping containers. The investigation analyzes maritime data, customs clearance records, and bills of lading to trace shipments from international ports of origin, through transit points in Djibouti, to their potential final destinations in Yemen.

The report examines shipments of chemicals including sodium perchlorate, ammonium nitrate, and calcium carbide. While these substances have diverse industrial and civilian uses, some can be adapted for military purposes depending on their purity and application, according to the findings.

The investigation focuses on the import records of these materials into Djibouti, identifying the entities and companies involved in shipping and customs clearance. It seeks to determine if there are indications of certain shipments being diverted to Yemen outside of established commercial and legal frameworks, potentially facilitating their access by the Houthi militia.

Al-Kharraz indicated that the report also explores maritime transport routes, including suspicions of smuggling boats being used to move shipments from the African coast to Yemeni shores. It further investigates recipient companies and beneficiaries, cross-referencing import records with data from seized shipments.

Additionally, Al-Kharraz raises questions about the possibility of sensitive equipment being transported via humanitarian or UN flights to Sana'a Airport, subsequently becoming part of the Houthi military supply chain.

The report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of cross-border supply chains and expose potential loopholes exploited to move sensitive materials under the guise of legitimate commercial activities. This effort is undertaken amidst the significant challenges of monitoring shipping movements in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa region.