Chad’s Southern Border Plagued by Cannabis Trafficking and Synthetic Drug Abuse

N’DJAMENA, CHAD - The growing threat of cannabis trafficking and synthetic drug abuse along the southern borders of Chad

Cannabis has been produced in the region, particularly along the borders with Nigeria, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and Sudan. However, most of the cannabis is trafficked into Chad from these countries, with Nigeria being the primary source.

The Consequences of Synthetic Drug Abuse

The situation has become so dire that even artisanal miners in the informal gold mining sector are using Tramadol, a synthetic drug, to increase their productivity and suppress hunger. Despite efforts by the government to shut down pharmacies involved in the clandestine sale of Tramadol, consumption of the drug remains a growing problem. More than half of the country’s pharmacies have been shut down in recent years, but evidence suggests that this has had limited success in slowing down the consumption of the drug.

Armed Groups and Rebels Fuel Criminal Activity

The report also highlights the presence of several armed groups and rebels operating in the north and east of Chad. These groups are involved in various types of trafficking activities, including drug trafficking and gold smuggling. Corruption is rampant in the Chadian administration, with customs and police services often protecting traffickers. There have even been reports of wildlife officers being involved in the illicit ivory trade.

Government Efforts to Combat Organized Crime

The government has taken steps to tackle criminality, but its approach has been criticized for being too focused on security and not enough on addressing the root causes of crime. The military has launched crackdowns on illegal gold mining sites, but these efforts have been limited in their impact. The government has also tried to engage with international organizations to combat organized crime, but implementation of anti-crime laws remains a challenge.

Challenges Ahead

The report highlights several challenges that Chad must overcome if it is to effectively combat organized crime and drug trafficking:

• Stronger legal frameworks
• Greater transparency in government
• More effective law enforcement
• Addressing corruption
• Improving economic regulatory capacity

Until these challenges are addressed, the southern borders of Chad will remain plagued by cannabis trafficking and synthetic drug abuse.