The Republican Police delivered a significant blow to urban criminal enterprises this week in Cotonou, executing a large-scale operation within the Vodjè district.
This targeted intervention successfully dismantled a notorious hub that had discreetly housed an Indian hemp trafficking network. Our initial findings indicate this location served both as a critical transit point and a consumption site for users.
The raid led to the apprehension of several individuals on the premises and the confiscation of substantial materials directly linked to the illicit trade. Investigations are vigorously continuing to identify and detain all members and connections involved in this criminal enterprise.
Military involvement in the network?
The case has taken a particularly serious turn with the Republican Police’s active pursuit of a Béninese armed forces agent. Known by his nickname, “Alòtrò” (a reference to the gecko), this military personnel is the primary focus of investigators, who suspect him of direct complicity with the trafficking networks.
Information gathered by security services indicates the soldier did not frequent the hub for personal consumption. Instead, he allegedly established a sophisticated racketeering scheme, regularly collecting payments from the dealers.
In exchange for these illicit commissions, the military operative reportedly offered them purported protection and immunity from potential law enforcement raids, thereby betraying his sworn duty.
