Rising tide of drug trafficking in the Sahel, UN report reveals

Cannabis resin stands out as the most frequently intercepted drug in Sahelian countries including Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger, followed by cocaine and pharmaceutical opioids, according to the report. 

Cocaine seizures have witnessed a surge, skyrocketing from an average of 13 kg annually between 2015 and 2020 to 1,466 kg in 2022, the report titled ‘Drug Trafficking in the Sahel’ disclosed.

“Drug trafficking is well-established in the Sahel region – with detrimental consequences both locally and globally. Increased drug flows to West Africa and the Sahel undermine peace and stability in the region. This is not only a security issue as armed groups are deriving revenue to finance their operations, it is also a public health issue as criminal groups tap into population growth to expand illicit drug markets,” Amado Philip de Andres, head of UNODC agency’s West and Central Africa regional office is quoted.

While specific figures for 2023 remain undisclosed, mid-year data revealed a significant haul of 2.3 tons of cocaine seized in Mauritania alone, indicating the persistent flow of narcotics through Sahelian territories. 

Corruption and money laundering emerge as significant facilitators of drug trafficking, amplifying the challenges faced in combating this transnational crime. Recent crackdowns have uncovered the involvement of a diverse spectrum of individuals in facilitating drug trafficking, ranging from members of the political elite to community leaders and leaders of armed groups, further underscoring the multifaceted nature of this pressing issue.

The region's geographical position has rendered it a key transit point for the budding cocaine trade originating from South America en route to Europe, where demand for the illicit substance has similarly surged, according to reports. Nigeria has emerged as a crucial transit hub, forging growing connections with drug trafficking syndicates from South and Central America.