Mafia-Style Groups Emerge in Angola’s Urban Centers

A worrying trend is emerging in Angola’s urban centers, where mafia-style groups are operating across multiple criminal markets, exploiting weaknesses in the country’s law enforcement and financial systems.

Lawlessness in Urban Neighborhoods

These groups, often linked to corrupt security companies and former warlords, have access to weapons left over from the civil war. They target individuals withdrawing large sums of money from banks, using violence to intimidate and steal their cash. The police presence is weak in poor urban neighborhoods, creating an environment conducive to criminal activity.

Reports of armed robberies, kidnappings, and murders are common
Levels of violence are extremely high

State-Embedded Actors Pose Major Threat

Angola’s state-embedded actors, including government officials and business leaders, continue to pose a major threat to the country’s stability. The anti-corruption efforts of President João Lourenço have brought to light numerous cases of fraud and financial crimes, but critics argue that these prosecutions are selective and do not address the broader issue of state capture.

Case against Isabel Dos Santos, former president’s daughter, is a high-profile example
Critics argue that anti-corruption efforts are selective

Foreign Criminal Actors Also Active

Angola is also home to foreign criminal actors, including diamond smugglers from neighboring countries. The country’s extensive borders and long coastline make it vulnerable to cross-border crimes, including human trafficking and drug smuggling.

Government has launched operations to combat these crimes
More needs to be done to address root causes

Economic Challenges

Angola is one of the most difficult countries in which to do business, with poor land and property rights, high levels of institutionalized corruption, and a vulnerable banking system. The country’s economy has been strained by the COVID-19 pandemic, and there are concerns about its ability to recover.

Government has launched efforts to restore investor confidence and combat money laundering
More needs to be done to address these challenges

Angola has made some progress in supporting victims of trafficking and modern slavery, including establishing a witness protection program. However, there are concerns about the country’s ability to meet its international obligations in this area.

Government has launched initiatives to combat drug addiction and support people affected by COVID-19 pandemic
Civil society remains weak

Conclusion

Angola faces significant challenges in terms of organized crime, state capture, economic stability, and social protection. The government needs to address these issues head-on if it is to build a more stable and prosperous future for its citizens.