Chad’s Borders Remain Vulnerable to Trafficking and Crime

Chad’s borders with Nigeria, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and Sudan remain a hotbed of criminal activity, with cannabis trafficking being a significant concern. While there has been a slight decline in trafficking due to conflict in the central Sahel, the country still struggles to combat the issue.

Cannabis Trafficking and Domestic Consumption

According to reports, cannabis production has also been detected in southern Chad and the Lake Chad region, making it difficult for authorities to crack down on the illegal trade. Meanwhile, domestic consumption of Tramadol, a synthetic drug, is on the rise, with many artisanal miners using it to increase productivity and suppress hunger.

Cross-Border Crime

In addition to drug trafficking, Chad’s borders are also vulnerable to cross-border crime, including:

• Human trafficking
• Gold smuggling
• Wildlife poaching

Several armed groups and rebels operate in the north and east of the country, while corruption is rife among customs and police services.

Government Efforts

The government has taken steps to tackle criminality, but its approach has been largely securitized, with a focus on combating armed politico-military opposition rather than addressing crime itself. Transparency is limited, and oversight mechanisms are virtually non-existent.

However, Chad’s international relations have improved, with the country cooperating with organizations such as:

• The EU
• France
• The US

to combat transnational organized crime and terrorism in the Sahel region. The government has also ratified several international treaties related to organized crime.

Challenges Remain

Despite these efforts, challenges remain, including:

• Vast areas along the border with Sudan are beyond the control of the central government, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to operate effectively.
• The judicial system is weak, with no specialized units dedicated to countering organized crime.
• Economic regulatory capacity in Chad is weak, making it difficult for businesses to operate in the country.

Limitations on Civil Society

Civil society organizations are playing a limited role in combating trafficking and organized crime, but their efforts are hindered by:

• Restrictions on media freedom and access to information
• Journalists have been arrested or attacked for reporting negatively about the government
• Social media access has been blocked during protests

Conclusion

Chad’s borders remain vulnerable to criminal activity, and addressing these issues will require a more comprehensive approach that tackles corruption, strengthens law enforcement, and improves economic regulation and governance.