Cannabis Trafficking and Synthetic Drugs Plague Chad’s Southern Borders

Chad is facing a significant problem with cannabis trafficking along its southern borders, according to a new report. The country has been producing cannabis in the Lake Chad region and has also seen an influx of trafficked drugs from neighboring countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and Sudan.

Challenges in Combating Drug Trafficking

Despite efforts by the government to crack down on drug trafficking, the problem persists due to corruption and limited oversight mechanisms. In fact, more than half of the country’s pharmacies have been shut down in recent years after being found to be involved in the clandestine sale of drugs such as Tramadol.

Synthetic Drugs on the Rise

The report also highlights the growing problem of synthetic drugs in Chad, with domestic consumption of Tramadol on the rise. The drug is often used by artisanal miners in the informal gold mining sector to increase productivity and suppress hunger.

Cross-Border Crime: A Growing Concern

Chad’s proximity to several unstable countries has made it a hub for cross-border crime, with armed groups and rebels operating in the north and east of the country. These groups are involved in various types of trafficking activities, including drug trafficking and gold smuggling.

Corruption Hinders Efforts

Corruption is rampant in Chad, with customs and police services often turning a blind eye to illegal activities. There have been reports of wildlife officers being involved in the illicit ivory trade, while state-embedded actors have also been accused of involvement in drug trafficking.

Government Efforts Fall Short

While the government has taken steps to tackle criminality, its efforts have been criticized for being too focused on security and not enough on addressing the root causes of crime. The military has launched crackdowns on illicit gold mining sites, but these efforts have been hampered by limited resources and corruption.

Lack of Transparency and Oversight

The report also highlights the lack of transparency and oversight mechanisms in Chad, with the country having one of the highest levels of corruption perception in the world.

International Cooperation Key to Addressing Problem

Despite its challenges, Chad has shown a willingness to cooperate internationally on issues related to organized crime. The country has worked with international organizations such as the EU, France, and the US to combat terrorism and transnational organized crime.

Need for Improved Regulatory Capacity

However, more needs to be done to address the problem of cannabis trafficking and synthetic drugs in Chad. The government must work to improve its regulatory capacity, strengthen its law enforcement agencies, and provide support to victims of human trafficking.

Civil Society Plays a Crucial Role

Civil society organizations have been critical in denouncing trafficking in people and providing support to victims. However, their efforts are often hindered by limited resources and lack of government support.

Media’s Important Role

The media also plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the issue of drug trafficking in Chad. Despite facing challenges such as censorship and intimidation, journalists continue to report on the problem and bring it to the attention of the public.

Conclusion

Tackling the problem of cannabis trafficking and synthetic drugs in Chad will require a coordinated effort from government, civil society, and international organizations. It is only through this collaboration that we can hope to see significant progress in addressing this critical issue.