Senegalese Customs Seize Record 1,140kg Cocaine Haul Worth $146 Million

In a major drug bust, Senegalese customs officials have seized a record 1,140 kilograms of cocaine worth an estimated $146 million in the town of Kidira near the Mali border. The seizure, which took place during a routine inspection at a checkpoint, is the largest inland seizure of cocaine in Senegal's history.

According to customs officials, the drugs were discovered hidden in a truck. "The drugs were cleverly concealed in a secret compartment within the truck's cargo area," said a senior customs officer involved in the operation. "It took a thorough search by our trained officers to uncover the illegal shipment."

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the origin of the drugs and identify the individuals involved in the trafficking operation. Preliminary findings suggest that the cocaine may have originated from South America and was destined for European markets via West Africa.

Why this matters: The record seizure highlights the growing problem of drug trafficking in West Africa, which has become a major transit route for cocaine smuggled from South America to Europe. Senegal's strategic location makes it vulnerable to drug trafficking networks operating in the region.

Senegalese authorities have vowed to intensify their efforts to combat drug trafficking and disrupt the operations of criminal networks. "This seizure sends a strong message to drug traffickers that Senegal will not tolerate their illegal activities," said the head of Senegal's customs agency. "We will continue to work closely with our regional and international partners to tackle this global menace."

Key Takeaways

• Senegalese customs seized 1,140 kg of cocaine worth $146M, largest inland seizure.
• Drugs were hidden in a truck's secret compartment, discovered during routine inspection.
• Cocaine may have originated from South America, destined for European markets via West Africa.
• Seizure highlights growing drug trafficking problem in West Africa, a major transit route.
• Senegalese authorities vow to intensify efforts to combat drug trafficking and disrupt networks.