Cocaine Trafficking: Western Balkans Groups Expand Influence in West Africa

The criminal groups from the Western Balkans, who are prominent figures in Europe's cocaine trafficking, are establishing a stronger presence in West Africa. This shift signals the increasing importance of the region on the smuggling path from Latin America to the European Union, according to a recent report.

The demand for cocaine in Europe is rising. Coupled with tightened policing on direct routes from Latin America and the significant development of maritime ports in West Africa, smugglers are increasingly using countries like Senegal, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Cape Verde. However, the role of Albanian- and Slavic-speaking networks has been under-examined until now.

The Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC) reported that these groups now hold significant global influence. They have formed alliances with Dutch criminal entities and Brazil's Primeiro Comando da Capital, enhancing their supply chain strength. Sasa Djordevic, co-author and senior analyst at GI-TOC, regards this alliance as pivotal for moving cocaine into Europe. The report, partially funded by the UK government, stresses the necessity for improved law enforcement collaboration and data-driven strategies targeting trade brokers.

(With inputs from agencies.)