“Record Haul: Senegal Intercepts Over a Tonne of Cocaine”

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"Record Haul: Senegal Intercepts Over a Tonne of Cocaine"

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Customs authorities in Senegal have achieved a significant milestone in their ongoing battle against drug trafficking with the interception of over one tonne of cocaine. This haul marks the largest inland seizure of the drug ever recorded in the country.

The operation unfolded in the eastern town of Kidira, situated near the border with Mali. A lorry, transporting 1,137kg (2,506 pounds) of cocaine, was apprehended by authorities. The illicit substance was meticulously concealed in packets and stashed at the bottom of the vehicle.

Originating from a neighboring country, which officials declined to disclose, the intercepted drug shipment holds an estimated value of 90 billion CFA francs ($146 million; £117 million).

This latest seizure underscores a disturbing trend of escalating drug trafficking activities in Senegal. Notably, in November last year, the Senegalese navy seized a staggering three tonnes of cocaine from a vessel off the country’s coastline, representing one of the navy’s most significant drug busts to date.

Situated as a transit point for Latin American drug cartels smuggling narcotics to Europe and other destinations, the region grapples with the pervasive influence of drug trafficking networks.

As authorities continue their relentless efforts to combat drug smuggling, these successes serve as crucial milestones in the ongoing fight against transnational organized crime in Senegal and beyond.