New York Times reporting that former Blackwater founder, Erik Prince, has set up a mercenary force in U.A.E.  The force is mainly made up of Colombians, but includes South Africans, Germans, British and U.S. citizens.

United States officials say if the mercenary group does not have U.S. approval then the U.S. citizens involved could face criminal charges.

Reports say United Arab Emirates is using the mercenary force to build up its own military, in preparation for possible war with Iran.