The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has issued a significant alert regarding the growing cocaine trafficking in West Africa, particularly in the Sahel region. According to their report published on April 19, 2024, several notable seizures have been recorded in recent months. For example, on June 18, 2023, Mauritania intercepted a ship containing 2.3 tons of cocaine near its shores, involving Mauritanians and other nationalities.
The report also highlights other major incidents, such as in Ivory Coast where 21 kg of cocaine were discovered in March 2023, hidden in food parcels in Abidjan. The investigation reveals that these drugs came from Kidal, in the north of Mali, with a presumed final destination in France. In Senegal, similar seizures took place, with 25 kg seized from a vehicle in Kaolack and 300 kg from a refrigerated truck in Kidira.
UNODC reports highlight not only the rise in cocaine trafficking, but also cannabis resin and pharmaceutical opioids which present increased public health concerns. These illicit activities often involve armed groups, which accentuates the already precarious security and social complications in the region.
