São Tomé and Príncipe: A Transit Country for Trafficking and Criminal Activities

Introduction

São Tomé and Príncipe has become a transit country for various criminal activities, including drug trafficking and cybercrime, due to its strategic location in the Gulf of Guinea. This article will examine the country’s vulnerability to organized crime and the challenges it faces in combating these threats.

Drug Trafficking

The use of drugs in São Tomé and Príncipe is largely linked to tourism and cultural events, with little impact on local community consumption. However, the country’s proximity to the Niger Delta, a hotbed of piracy, raises concerns about the potential for drug trafficking through its waters.

The country’s strategic location makes it an attractive hub for organized crime groups.
The use of drugs is mainly linked to tourism and cultural events.

Cybercrime

São Tomé and Príncipe lacks a regulatory framework and law enforcement capacity to combat cybercrime, making it vulnerable to online attacks. The country’s banks are also at risk due to inadequate security measures.

The lack of a regulatory framework and law enforcement capacity makes the country vulnerable to cybercrime.
Banks in São Tomé and Príncipe are at risk due to inadequate security measures.

Financial Crimes

Corruption is rampant in São Tomé and Príncipe, with government officials embezzling public funds and tax evasion being a significant issue. The country’s banking system is also susceptible to illicit money movements.

Corruption is widespread in the country, leading to embezzlement of public funds and tax evasion.
The banking system is vulnerable to illicit money movements.

Criminal Actors

Foreign criminal actors have a presence in the country, while local gangs are involved in drug trafficking and other criminal activities. The lack of resources and equipment hinders the law enforcement agency’s ability to combat crime effectively.

Foreign criminal actors have a presence in São Tomé and Príncipe.
Local gangs are involved in drug trafficking and other criminal activities.

Economic and Financial Environment

São Tomé and Príncipe is vulnerable to external shocks due to its fragile economy. High levels of unemployment and low wages create incentives for organized criminal activity, making it unattractive for investment.

The country’s fragile economy makes it vulnerable to external shocks.
Unemployment and low wages create incentives for organized crime.

The country lacks established assistance programs for victims of organized crime, and there is no explicit organized crime prevention policy in place. NGOs face funding challenges and operate with limited independence.

There are no established assistance programs for victims of organized crime.
NGOs face funding challenges and operate with limited independence.

Oversight and Cooperation

While the government has taken steps to improve cooperation with international partners, the country’s law enforcement agency still faces equipment and resource shortages. The military is responsible for territorial maritime surveillance and defense, but its resources are limited.

The government has improved cooperation with international partners.
The law enforcement agency faces equipment and resource shortages.

Conclusion

As São Tomé and Príncipe continues to navigate these challenges, it is essential that the government prioritizes strengthening its institutions, improving its financial regulations, and enhancing cooperation with international partners to combat organized crime and promote economic development.