Burkina Faso: A Hotbed of Organized Crime

Growing Threat of Organized Crime

A recent report by a leading international organization has highlighted the growing threat of organized crime in Burkina Faso, a West African country bordering Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Togo. The country’s porous borders and weak governance have created an environment conducive to criminal activity.

Drug Trafficking

• Cannabis is widely available in Ouagadougou, the capital city, as well as in other parts of the country.
• Cocaine trafficking is limited, but the country is at risk of becoming a transit point for drug traffickers due to its location and lack of effective border control.

Terrorism and Criminal Activity

The report also highlights the presence of terrorist groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, which are active in the northern and eastern regions of the country. These groups are involved in a range of criminal activities, including:

• Smuggling counterfeit goods
• Pharmaceutical trafficking
• Illegal gold mining

Corruption

Corruption is rampant in Burkina Faso, with many state actors involved in embezzlement and money laundering. The government has taken steps to address corruption, but progress has been slow due to entrenched elites and a lack of political will.

Judicial System

The country’s judicial system is also struggling to keep pace with the growing threat of organized crime. Many cases are backlogged, and there is a shortage of specialized units to investigate and prosecute criminal activity.

Economic Environment

The economic environment in Burkina Faso is challenging, with poverty rates high and many people reliant on informal employment. This has created an environment where criminal activity can thrive.

Positive Developments

However, there are some positive developments:

• The government has ratified several international treaties related to organized crime.
• Efforts are underway to strengthen cooperation with international organizations and foreign governments.
• Civil society is playing an important role in Burkina Faso, with many non-governmental organizations working to prevent organized crime and support victims of trafficking and other forms of exploitation.

Overall, the report highlights the need for sustained efforts by the government, civil society, and international partners to combat organized crime in Burkina Faso.