Equatorial Guinea’s Shadowy Underworld: A Haven for Sex Trafficking, Forced Labor, and Arms Smuggling

In the heart of Central Africa, Equatorial Guinea continues to be a hotbed for illicit activities, including sex trafficking, forced labor, arms smuggling, and piracy. This small oil-rich nation attracts Central and West African workers, making it a source country for women and girls subjected to sexual exploitation.

Sex Trafficking and Forced Labor

• Women and children from Equatorial Guinea and neighboring countries are at risk of forced prostitution and domestic servitude.
• Malabo, Bata, and Mongomo are cities where these heinous crimes take place.
• There have been reports of the complicity of government officials and business elites in these criminal enterprises.

Human Smuggling and Arms Smuggling

• Human smuggling is not a major concern, but irregular migrants face extortion, raids, and physical abuse by law enforcement officials.
• Reports suggest arms trafficking, involving the smuggling of small weapons to neighboring countries, but there’s no substantial evidence of large-scale arms trafficking groups.

Piracy and Maritime Crimes

• Gulf of Guinea waters serve as a hub for piracy and maritime crimes, with gun crimes forming a significant part.
• The majority of weapons entering West Africa illegally are transported through Equatorial Guinea.
• Arms trafficking is fueled by political instability and corruption.

Trading of Illicit Goods

• Limited data is available concerning the illicit trade in excise and counterfeit goods, but tobacco smuggling has been reported in the past.
• Logging remains the most problematic industry, with rampant corruption and unsustainable exploitation.

Oil, Drugs, and Cybercrime

• Equatorial Guinea is a significant source country for illegal flora and fauna.
• The oil and mineral-related profits are primarily siphoned off by a corrupt and unaccountable elite.
• There is no concrete evidence to suggest the presence of cybercrime networks.

Political Environment

• Equatorial Guinea is ruled by President Obiang, Africa’s longest-serving president and one of its most brutal dictators.
• Despite public statements, the lack of effective action against organized crime and corruption indicates a systemic problem.
• Some members of the ruling elite are believed to benefit from illicit schemes, hindering their ability to combat organized crime and corruption.

Foreign Criminal Actors

• Spanish, Chinese, and North Korean actors are involved in sex trafficking and forced labor.
• Russian actors engage in arms smuggling with Equatoguinean officials.
• No solid evidence suggests the presence of mafia-like structures within the country.