A Chinese national living in California has been arrested and charged with illegally exporting weapons and ammunition to North Korea, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Shenghua Wen, 41, allegedly used $2 million sent to him by North Korea to purchase and ship at least two large shipments of weapons, ammunition, and other items. Federal agents seized 50,000 rounds of ammunition from a van parked outside Wen's home in Ontario, which he reportedly stated he obtained "at the direction of North Korean government officials."

According to an affidavit, Wen and unnamed co-conspirators allegedly exported the shipments from Long Beach to North Korea via Hong Kong. Wen is also accused of attempting to send various items to North Korea, including a chemical threat identification device, a handheld receiver that detects eavesdropping devices, and a civilian plane engine. He allegedly informed federal authorities that North Korea sought these items to advance its military drone program and prepare for an attack against South Korea.

Wen, who entered the U.S. on a student visa in 2012, is also accused of overstaying his visa and illegally possessing firearms and ammunition. A search of his iPhone revealed evidence of his alleged crimes, including emails and text messages discussing obtaining military uniforms for a "surprise attack on South Korea." Wen is expected to appear in court on Tuesday afternoon and faces up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted.

This case underscores concerns about the export of sensitive materials to North Korea, which faces strict international sanctions. The U.S. Department of Justice has pledged to combat such activities, and Wen's arrest is viewed as a significant step in this effort. As the case progresses, it is likely to reveal more about the alleged activities of North Korean agents in the U.S. and the measures being taken to prevent the export of sensitive materials to the rogue state.