Togo’s Web of Corruption and Criminal Activity

A recent investigation has uncovered a complex web of corruption and criminal activity in Togo, with strong connections between state authorities and foreign criminal networks. The country is grappling with numerous challenges, including drug trafficking, terrorism, human trafficking, and corruption.

Drug Trafficking

International drug trafficking is primarily conducted by expansive foreign criminal networks.
Local networks focus on the production and distribution of synthetic drugs.
The most active foreign criminal actors in Togo are from Latin America, Nigeria, and Lebanon, although China is significantly involved in pangolin trafficking.

Violent Extremist Groups

Since the end of 2021, Togo has experienced an increasing number of attacks carried out by suspected violent extremist groups in the north of the country.
The links between these groups and trafficking activities remain nebulous, but precedent suggests that armed groups likely operate as consumers of illicit supply chains.

Corruption

Informal institutions co-exist alongside formal public administration in Togo, creating a parallel structure that fosters an environment conducive to corrupt practices among state-embedded actors.
High-level state representatives have been implicated in various illicit activities, including corruption, drug trafficking, and money laundering.

Leadership and Governance

Togo has made significant progress in political and administrative governance, with the adoption of several new laws and policies aimed at reducing corruption and improving transparency.
However, limited resources to address corruption among government officials and security forces remain a challenge.

Criminal Justice and Security

Togo has improved its legal and institutional structures to combat organized crime, but the judicial system still lacks human, financial, and material resources necessary for independence and transparency.
The country’s prisons are overcrowded, and sentences are often lenient, failing to act as a deterrent.

Economic and Financial Environment

Togo has strengthened its measures against money laundering and terrorism financing, but further improvements are needed in enforcement and risk-based approaches.
International cooperation is pushing awareness and skills dissemination to effectively enforce the law.

Togo has taken steps to strengthen victim protection capacity, including a legal aid law for economically disadvantaged people.
However, overall victim protection levels remain insufficient, particularly for adult victims of human trafficking who lack access to shelters and psychological support.
The government’s efforts to curtail human trafficking are commendable, but more needs to be done to protect freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, as Togo remains among the worst in West Africa with regards to media freedom.