Laboremus Pro Patria

CORUSCANT (INB) – The galaxy has been made a safer place today, as one of the galaxy's largest smuggling rings was shut down in Trax sector. Facing attacks from various governments and corporations, Jah Unubunko had two choices: turn away from the path of crime, or face utter destruction. Wisely, Jah Unubunko leadership chose the former, and turned to the Galactic Empire for aid in reformation. Working with high-ranking members of the Imperial Diplomatic Corps, Jah Unubunko signed a groundbreaking agreement with the Empire to cease their criminal activities and reorganize as a legitimate recycling business, under the name of Imperial Resource Conversion.

Originally, Jah Unubunko came to the Empire to ask for political protection. However, Imperial policy is strictly against the condoning or supporting smuggling in any form. In an effort to seek a solution that pleased all parties involved, top IDC officials put forward the possibility of Jah Unubunko reforming and legitimizing to serve the Empire and the greater galaxy in a positive way. The smuggling organization agreed, and the majority of further discussion concerned the terms of nationalization and re-acclimation to a law-abiding lifestyle.

Despite their lawlessness, Minister Guinar Ndengin of the Ministry of Industry commented that the Empire had been monitoring the smuggling operation for an undisclosed period of time. “They worked efficiently, thanks to ruthless leadership. Transfer time for their goods was astonishing, really. After discussion, we felt it best to take that ruthlessness and efficiency and mold it into the Imperial mandate. Their speed and logistical talent will greatly benefit the Empire's extensive industrial commitments.” While exact details remain classified, the Empire has acknowledged that ISB will assist in the transitional process, familiarizing the former smugglers with the Imperial Codex and its practice. “Members who wish to remain will be required to sign an oath to adhere to Imperial law, but if they desire to leave Jah Unubunko instead of signing the oath, we will hold nothing against them,” assured Vizier for Diplomacy Jarek Sankin. “But, if those former members continue in their criminal ways, then we will hunt them down, simple as that.”

The Empire is not the only organization pleased over the agreement. IRC CEO Nara Riencam remarked that she was “extremely relieved at the nationalization of Jah Unubunko with the Galactic Empire. It is a win-win situation for both sides; Jah Unubunko was running into some security problems in the Trax sector, and The Galactic Empire was the only solution to the problem. If not for the nationalization, I would not know who else to turn to, in troubled times."

General opinion has been heavily favorable. Many citizens are pleased that the once-criminal faction has “seen the light of Imperial law and order,” as one Coruscanti merchant put it. Flight Sergeant Edward Riqnnboqr perhaps summed up the military's view best when he said, “I look forward to seeing the Unubunko's ships darting across our trading centers - without having to chase them this time.”