The Untold Story of Dave Tomkins: From Illegal Arms Deals to Assassination Attempts

From Criminal Beginnings to Mercenary Exploits

Dave Tomkins, a grandfather from Hampshire, spent over four decades navigating illegal arms deals and engaging in wars worldwide for hefty sums of cash. Despite no military training, he delved into a world of chaos and violence, admitting that "war is addictive." His journey from a troubled childhood to becoming a criminal mastermind involved a series of risky and morally questionable decisions.

An Extraordinary Career Unveiled

After being recruited to join a gang in Angola amidst a civil war, Tomkins faced life-threatening situations before being sent back to Britain due to a landmine explosion. His mercenary career led him to plan the assassination of the President of Togo, showcasing his willingness to take on dangerous missions for financial gain. Despite his involvement in arms deals and assassinations, Tomkins has no regrets about his actions.

The Downfall and Legacy

As Tomkins delved deeper into the world of espionage and illegal activities, his luck eventually ran out in 1991. An attempt to purchase a fighter jet in Miami led to his arrest on charges of conspiracy to violate arms export laws. Despite being jailed in the US for over 33 months, his assassination attempt on Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar was foiled, with Escobar meeting his end at the hands of Colombian authorities.

Reflections on a Dangerous Path

Now at 84 and battling cancer, Dave Tomkins reflects on his tumultuous and criminal past, acknowledging his role in contributing to global conflicts. His story, captured in the BBC documentary "Dogs of War," sheds light on the life of a man who embraced the chaos and darkness of the world in pursuit of wealth and power.