DOJ: International Network Including Bulgarian Trafficker Sought to Supply CJNG with Missiles and Military Explosives

U.S. Department of Justice announced criminal proceedings against a Bulgarian national who allegedly coordinated an international weapons-trafficking network targeting CJNG as a client. The network sought to supply CJNG with high-powered military equipment including missiles and explosives — a significant escalation beyond the conventional firearms and RPGs previously documented in CJNG's arsenal. The use of forged documents was central to the scheme. The case underscores that CJNG is actively seeking to upgrade its military capability during the succession crisis — consistent with Grupo Élite's paramilitary orientation under O3's command. CJNG's prior weapons procurement has included Russian RPG-27 launchers (used in the 2015 helicopter shootdown), .50-caliber rifles, and commercially modified armored vehicles. A successful missile acquisition would represent a qualitative escalation of CJNG's anti-state capability. DEA and ATF are investigating U.S. links in the supply chain.