Tunisia’s Seaports and Airports: A Hub for European Criminal Networks

A Recent Investigation Reveals Alarming Findings

A recent investigation has uncovered a staggering implication of Brazilian, Tunisian, and Italian criminal networks in Tunisia’s seaports and airports. The investigation found that these networks are trafficking large quantities of drugs, including Ecstasy and Subutex, into the country.

Drug Trafficking: A Growing Concern

• Ecstasy: This highly addictive drug is primarily trafficked from Europe by networks of European and Tunisian nationals.
• Subutex: A semi-synthetic opioid, it is often used as a substitute for heroin and is highly addictive. Tunisian nationals are smuggling this drug into the country.

The Role of Corruption

Corruption is widespread in Tunisia, with citizens regularly paying bribes to law enforcement officials, customs agents, and National Guard officers to facilitate or expedite access to services normally provided by public institutions.

Strategic Location: A Hub for Criminal Activity

Tunisia’s seaports and airports have become a hub for criminal activity due to their strategic location. The country’s porous borders with Algeria and Libya make it easy for drugs to be smuggled into the region.

Human Trafficking Networks

The investigation also highlighted the role of human trafficking networks in Tunisia, which are often composed of speculative ‘samsaras’ or brokers who act as intermediaries between families of minor girls from the North West of Tunisia and families from rich cities looking for domestic helpers.

Challenges in Combating Organized Crime and Corruption

Despite efforts by the government to combat organized crime, corruption remains a significant challenge. The country’s judicial sector is overwhelmed by a heavy workload, and prisons are seen as a breeding ground for organized crime.

Progress in Combating Money Laundering

Tunisia has made some progress in combating money laundering, but more needs to be done to address the issue. The country was previously blacklisted by the European Parliament as a country at risk of money laundering, but was taken off the list in October 2019 after deploying efforts to foster international assistance for its banking and insurance sectors.

Need for Increased Cooperation

The report highlights the need for increased cooperation between Tunisia and the European Union to combat organized crime and corruption. The EU has been providing significant assistance to Tunisia’s law enforcement agencies to help them tackle these issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tunisia’s seaports and airports have become a hub for European criminal networks, and the country faces significant challenges in combating organized crime and corruption. While progress has been made, more needs to be done to address these issues and ensure the safety and security of its citizens.