In May 2020, a satellite captured an image near Taiwan showing an oil transfer to a ship bound for North Korea, potentially violating international sanctions. This investigation focuses on the Diamond 8 tanker and its connections. Winson Shipping, linked to the Winson Group, plays a key role in North Korea's oil supply. The Diamond 8 has made illicit trips to North Korea. The ship's ownership is convoluted, involving individuals from Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Fujian, China. Winson Shipping remains connected to ships providing oil to the Diamond 8, despite UN sanctions. This intricate network helps North Korea obtain oil despite sanctions.
Here are the key facts from the provided text:
1. In May 2020, a satellite captured an image over the sea near Taiwan.
2. The image revealed a transfer of oil to a ship.
3. The ship was identified as the Diamond 8 and had been flagged by the United Nations for illicit trips to North Korea.
4. Covert oil deliveries are crucial to North Korea's economy and weapons program.
5. The investigation focused on the Diamond 8 and its connections.
6. Winson Group, primarily through its Taiwan operation Winson Shipping, was linked to the Diamond 8 and the oil transfers.
7. The path of oil to North Korea involved several ships, including the Ever Grandeur and Superstar.
8. The Diamond 8 had been to North Korea at least four times since late 2019, despite sanctions.
9. The ownership and management of the Diamond 8 were complex and involved individuals and companies linked to Winson Group.
10. Tony Tung, the founder of Winson Group, had faced smuggling and bribery investigations in the past.
11. Winson Shipping Taiwan changed its name to Zheng Yu Shipping after questions about its involvement in oil deliveries.
12. The investigation exposed an elaborate system for delivering oil to North Korea in violation of sanctions.
These facts provide an overview of the key information in the text without including opinions.