Title: INTERPOL Bolsters Benin’s Fight Against Transnational Crimes: A Global Approach to West African Security
Benin: A Hotspot for Transnational Crimes
- West African country is a battleground in the global war against transnational crimes
- Diverse range of illicit activities include weapons, stolen vehicles, cigarettes, fake medicines, wildlife products, natural resources, human trafficking, money laundering, cattle rustling, and cybercrime
Transnational Crime Networks in West Africa
- Exploited as a crucial link in global operations of international organized crime networks
- Hub for drug smuggling from South America to Europe and Asia
- Source, transit region, and destination for human trafficking
The Role of INTERPOL
- International organization facilitating police cooperation and global crime solving
- INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) in Benin plays a crucial role in country’s security
INTERPOL in Benin
- Located in Cotonou, Benin’s second-largest city
- Staffed with police officers specialized in tackling West Africa’s unique crime challenges
- Equips local forces with globally sourced intelligence
- Active player in INTERPOL’s global fugitive investigation operations
The Republic of Benin’s Law Enforcement
- Responsibility of the Democratic and Security Forces of Benin (DGPR)
- Tasked with maintaining national security, preserving law and order, and protecting citizens and their property
- National Criminal Police Force (DPJ) spearheads investigation of serious organized crime and transnational crimes
- Partners with international organizations like INTERPOL and leverages their global intelligence resources to gain an edge in the fight against transnational crimes