Turkmenistan’s Crime Wave: Loose Networks Thrive Amid Economic Crisis
As Turkmenistan struggles to recover from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, a growing concern has emerged over the rise of criminal networks in the country. These loose networks, involved in drug trafficking, human trafficking, and goods smuggling, have been empowered by the economic crisis and are known to cooperate with transnational organized crime groups.
The Rise of Criminal Networks
According to reports, the level of violence perpetrated by these criminal actors varies depending on the market they operate in. Human trafficking, for example, is often accompanied by medium or high-level violence.
Despite the lack of mafia-style groups in Turkmenistan since the 1990s crackdown, there are signs that criminal networks are gaining strength. The political elite’s monopolistic control over the economy has led to minimal interaction between foreign and local criminal actors, with sporadic incidents reported mainly involving financial crimes.
Weak Governance and Corruption
The government’s weak governance and corruption have created an environment conducive to criminal activity. Corruption is rampant in sectors such as:
- Education
- Health
- Customs
- Taxation
- Justice
- Security services
- Oil and gas
Laws penalizing official corruption are rarely enforced, and public administration relies heavily on patronage networks.
Limited Cooperation with International Organizations
Turkmenistan’s limited cooperation with regional organizations and international treaties has hindered efforts to combat organized crime. The country has ratified anti-corruption and drug trafficking treaties, but implementation remains ineffective.
Flawed Criminal Justice System
The criminal justice system is also marred by corruption and political interference. Judges are subordinate to government executives, and courts are used to punish dissent and remove potential threats rather than prosecute criminals. Prisons are overcrowded with sub-standard conditions, and corruption and torture are rampant among prison officials.
Law Enforcement Agencies
Law enforcement agencies are often used to maintain internal security rather than combat organized crime. Arbitrary arrests, excessive use of force, and corruption by law enforcement officials have been reported.
Geographic Location and Vulnerability
Turkmenistan’s geographic location makes it a major transit point for criminal goods, with its extensive borders posing a challenge to effective policing. The country’s proximity to major criminal markets in Afghanistan exacerbates its vulnerability to criminal activity.
Efforts to Combat Organized Crime
The government has shown some efforts to strengthen border control and combat cyber-dependent crimes, but more needs to be done to address the growing threat of organized crime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Turkmenistan faces a significant threat from loose criminal networks empowered by the economic crisis. The government’s weak governance, corruption, and lack of effective law enforcement have created an environment conducive to criminal activity. It is essential that the country takes concrete steps to combat organized crime and promote transparency and accountability in its institutions.