Corporate Financial Crime Cases Reach Historic Proportions in Sudan as Trial of Lundin Executives Opens in Sweden

Stockholm - In a landmark case, two former executives of Swedish oil company Lundin Petroleum are set to face trial on Monday, accused of complicity in war crimes committed by the Sudanese army and allied militias between 1999 and 2003.

Accused of Profiting from Exploitation of Oil Field

Alex Schneiter, former chairman of Lundin Petroleum, and Ian Lundin, former director of the company, stand accused of profiting from the exploitation of an oil field in what is now South Sudan during a period marked by widespread human rights abuses.

Charges Stem from Allegations of Large-Scale Military Operations

The charges against Schneiter and Lundin stem from allegations that between 1999 and 2003, the Sudanese army and allied militias carried out large-scale military operations to control the area where Lundin Petroleum was operating. According to prosecutors, these attacks resulted in:

• Systematic or Indiscriminate Violence Against Civilians
  • Bombings
  • Shooting at civilians from helicopter gunships
  • Burning villages and crops

Defendants Reject Accusations Outright

The defendants have rejected the accusations outright, citing their own analysis of the claims made against them. However, the Swedish prosecutor’s office has maintained that the executives were aware of the human rights abuses taking place in the area and failed to take adequate measures to prevent them.

Significant Shift in Sweden’s Approach to Corporate Accountability

This trial is significant not only for its scope but also because it marks a major shift in Sweden’s approach to corporate accountability. According to prosecutors, while private companies cannot be held criminally liable under Swedish law, individuals or companies that profit from crimes can have their assets seized. Additionally, companies can be fined for their role in facilitating human rights abuses.

Closely Watched by Corporate Accountability Experts and Human Rights Advocates

The trial is being closely watched by corporate accountability experts and human rights advocates, who see it as a major test case for the liability of private companies and their executives in situations where they are accused of complicity in human rights violations.

Quote from Olof Björnsson, Programme Manager at Swedwatch

“This lawsuit sends a strong signal to companies and their executives in Sweden and elsewhere. It shows that actions and failures to respect human rights can lead to criminal prosecution.”