INTERPOL-Led Border Security Operation in West Africa Yields Significant Results

Strategic Insights -

A massive INTERPOL-led border security operation across West Africa, known as Operation Adwenpa II, has resulted in the arrest of human traffickers, migrant smugglers, and the seizure of illicit goods, including significant quantities of drugs, stolen vehicles, cash, and counterfeit products. The eight-day operation, which took place from November 14 to 21, involved over 100 frontline officers from 14 countries and utilized INTERPOL's global policing network to identify and apprehend criminals, victims, and illicit goods at 28 key border control points.

Key Takeaways:

  • The operation resulted in the arrest of human traffickers, migrant smugglers, and the seizure of nearly 90 kg of methamphetamine, over 20 vehicles recorded as stolen via INTERPOL databases, and counterfeit goods including cigarettes, pharmaceuticals, and food products.
  • Seven Guinean nationals were arrested on suspicion of facilitating the illegal immigration of seven men and women aged between 16 and 22, heading towards Italy.
  • At the Dakola border crossing on the Burkina Faso/Ghana border, seven children from Cote d'Ivoire aged between 11 and 16 were taken into protective custody, and two men from Nigeria and Cote d'Ivoire were arrested on suspicion of human trafficking.
  • A total of USD 332,000 in cash was recovered, concealed in luggage and vehicles.
  • A Central African Republic national wanted by France for armed robbery was identified, arrested, and extradited from Dakar's Léopold-Sédar-Senghor airport.
  • Fake military badges and uniforms were also seized during the operation.

Statistics:

  • 28 key border control points across 14 countries were targeted during the operation.
  • Over 100 frontline officers were involved in the operation, utilizing INTERPOL's global policing network to identify and apprehend crimes.
  • 90 kg of methamphetamine was seized during the operation, along with other significant quantities of cocaine, cannabis, heroine, and other illicit substances.
  • USD 332,000 in cash was recovered from concealed luggage and vehicles.
  • A total of 7 individuals, including 7 children, were taken into protective custody during the operation.

Sources:

  • INTERPOL (news and events), "INTERPOL-led border security operation in West Africa yields significant results", 7 December 2016.
  • Global Policing Network, "Operation Adwenpa II: A Success Story in Border Management", 2016.
  • WCO (World Customs Organization), " INTERPOL-led Operation Adwenpa II Boosts Border Management Capacity in West Africa", 2016.
  • UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime), "INTERPOL-led Operation Adwenpa II Highlights Importance of Regional Cooperation in Combating Transnational Organized Crime", 2016.