Smuggling surges as Sahel pivots from Europe to Russia

Criminal networks are rapidly expanding across the Sahel, exploiting political instability and weakened Western influence, according to Deutsche Welle. Cities like Agadez, once migrant transit hubs, have become centers for smuggling people and drugs. The 2023 coup in Niger led to the repeal of EU-backed anti-smuggling laws—just one day after a military deal with Russia, noted Ulf Laessing of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

Drug seizures across Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger surged from 13 kilograms annually to over 1.5 tonnes by 2022, per UNODC data. Cocaine is now trafficked using advanced methods such as semi-submersibles, with West African groups managing mid-level distribution.

Meanwhile, Russia’s Africa Corps presence has failed to restore order. Rather than deterring crime, the group is accused of exacerbating violence. UNODC officials warn of mounting “narco-terrorism,” as jihadist groups increasingly control trafficking routes. Laessing argues Europe’s retreat has left a dangerous vacuum along its southern flank.