São Tomé and Príncipe: A Vulnerable Paradise

The island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe, located off the coast of West Africa, faces a unique set of challenges when it comes to organized crime.

Organized Crime Challenges

While synthetic drugs are not typically present in the local market, the country’s strategic location makes it a potential transit point for their trafficking.
The country lacks a regulatory framework and law enforcement capacity to counter cyber-dependent crimes targeting private institutions such as banks and government authorities.

Cyber Crimes

Reports of cyber-attacks have been sporadic, but São Tomé and Príncipe lacks the necessary resources and specialized personnel to investigate and prosecute these crimes effectively.
The country’s lack of a regulatory framework makes it vulnerable to online fraud and other cyber-dependent crimes.

Financial Crimes

Corruption is rampant in the country, with embezzlement of public funds by government officials being a significant issue.
Tax evasion and avoidance are also pervasive, resulting in estimated losses of US$120,000 per year.
The lack of adequate means and specialized personnel hinders investigations into financial crimes.

Criminal Actors

Corruption within the state apparatus is a significant concern, as it enables criminal activity to flourish.
Maritime crime, including piracy, poses a threat to the country’s nascent oil industry and international shipping lanes.

Economic and Financial Environment

São Tomé and Príncipe’s economy is fragile and vulnerable to external shocks.
The country lacks robust regulatory mechanisms to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing.
While efforts are being made to strengthen cooperation between institutions, significant deficiencies remain.

The country lacks established assistance programs for victims of organized crime.
NGOs operate relatively freely, but funding constraints hinder their ability to operate independently.
Freedom of the press is constitutionally guaranteed, but self-censorship is common due to government influence.

Conclusion

As São Tomé and Príncipe continues to navigate these challenges, it remains vulnerable to organized criminal activity. The country’s proximity to pirate-infested waters in the Niger Delta adds to its maritime security concerns. Efforts to strengthen cooperation between institutions and improve the regulatory environment are essential for mitigating these risks.