Financial Crime World

The Complex Situation of Organized Crime in Angola

Introduction

Angola is grappling with a growing presence of mafia-style groups, particularly in urban centers such as Luanda. These groups engage in various criminal activities, including illicit drug trade, firearms trafficking, and extortion.

Key Challenges

  • Weak Institutional Frameworks: The government’s efforts to combat organized crime and corruption are hindered by inadequate institutional anti-corruption frameworks.
  • Poor Government Transparency and Accountability: There is a lack of access to relevant information, undermining the judicial system.
  • Executive Control: The judicial system is also undermined by executive control.

Progress Made

Despite these challenges, the government has made some progress in tackling money laundering and increasing international cooperation to combat organized crime. However, there are still concerns regarding the country’s economic regulatory systems, which are not seen as meeting international standards.

Civil Society and Human Rights

  • Weak Civil Society: Civil society remains weak, with limited freedom of press.
  • Suppressed Protests: Protests often suppressed by the authorities.
  • Initiatives to Tackle Human Trafficking: The government has launched initiatives to tackle human trafficking and environmental crimes.

Statistics and Indicators

Some key statistics and indicators from the report include:

  • Increased Number of Mafia-Style Groups: The number of mafia-style groups in Angola has increased, with multiple small groups dismantled by authorities in 2021 and 2022.
  • Progress in Tackling Money Laundering: The government has made progress in tackling money laundering, but the judicial system remains inadequate.
  • Ineffective Human Trafficking Response: Human trafficking victims continue to be ineffective, with no referrals for care reported in 2020.
  • High Level of Corruption: The country has a high level of corruption, with many citizens believing that the president is using anti-corruption efforts as a political weapon.

Conclusion

Angola’s situation with organized crime is complex and requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both domestic and international challenges. While there have been some positive developments in recent years, much work remains to be done to effectively combat organized crime and corruption in the country.