Man charged with sending computer parts to Libya

A 59-year-old North Carolina man was arrested this week by federal officials in D.C. after he was indicted on charges of illegally exporting computer parts and technology to Libya and lying to Commerce Department agents about it, the U.S. Attorney’s office in the District said.

Prosecutors allege that Mohammed El-Gamal was the president and CEO Applied Technology Inc. in Kenansville, N.C., and in that capacity he sent various computer parts to Libya without a license. Exports to Libya are restricted due to national security reasons, the U.S. Attorney’s office said in a statement.

The four-count indictment alleges that Gamal sent that equipment on three occassions in June and July 2006, officials said. He is also charged with lying to Commerce Department agents, for allegedly saying he never asked a company employee to hand-deliver equipment from the U.S. to Libya, authorities said.

If convicted, Gamal faces 63 to 78 months in prison, officials said.

-- Clarence Williams