A disturbing trend has emerged in West Africa, with Guinea-Bissau becoming a major transshipment point for illicit drugs between North America, Europe, and Africa without much interference from the custodians of law and order in the accounts who appear to be playing big role in the ugly development. Investigation reveals that in recent times, the availability of hard drugs like Cocaine is so common in African countries like Cape Verde, Senegal, Gambia etc, that it can be purchased in some shops and more easily on the streets. No thanks to Guinea Bissau.
The country’s strategic location and alleged complicity of high-ranking officials have created an environment conducive for large-scale drug trafficking. It is alleged that the incumbent president is so complacent and compromised that he can as well be passed for a high-level kingpin.
Recent Seizure Highlights Scope of Problem
In a recent operation, judicial authorities in Guinea-Bissau seized over 8 tons of cocaine, valued at millions of dollars. The shipment was intercepted at the country’s international airport as they flew into the country on a private plane, and the traffickers were taken into custody.
However, in a surprising turn of events, police officers attached to President Sissico Embalo’s security detail attempted to take possession of the drugs and traffickers, reportedly to transport them to the Presidential villa. This has been their action on several occasions which always marks the end of the story. The traffickers always get their freedom from the presidential level and the drugs never accounted for, of course they will be put into circulation at the highest level.
Judicial Police Resist Interference, Present Evidence to Press
This time around, the Judicial Police, led by Director Correia Quitoli, in commendable action, refused to hand over the evidence to the President and his men, and instead presented the seized drugs and traffickers to the press. This bold move highlights the determination of the Judicial Police to combat drug trafficking, despite alleged high-level interference.
The situation in Guinea-Bissau has serious implications for global security and public health. The international community must take notice of the growing drug trafficking problem in the region and support efforts to combat it. The alleged complicity of high-ranking officials, including President Sissico Embalo, raises concerns about the country’s ability to effectively address this issue.
Call for Action
The global community must come together to support Guinea-Bissau in its fight against drug trafficking. This includes providing technical assistance, training, and resources to strengthen the country’s law enforcement and judicial institutions. The time to act is now, to prevent further exploitation of West Africa as a hub for illicit drug trafficking. President Sissico Embalo must be held accountable for his role in the current proliferation of drugs in the world.
