Last weekend, the Saraya territorial brigade carried out two major raids that mark a new stage in the fight against criminal networks operating in the Kédougou region. The gendarmes dismantled a human trafficking network in Saiensoutou (Missirah Sirimana commune) and a drug trafficking network in Kolia (Bembou commune).

In Saiensoutou, the men in blue mounted a discreet operation. A gendarme, posing as a client, was able to infiltrate a human trafficking network. Three underage girls, without identification, were discovered during the operation. One of the perpetrators was arrested, while the main suspect was traveling to Dakar.

The victims were entrusted to the NGO La Lumière, which specializes in the protection of vulnerable children, for psychological and social support.

Hard drugs in Kolia: an international network in the crosshairs

The second operation took place in Kolia, where police arrested a trafficker in possession of heroin and more than 95 bags of crush. The investigation revealed the existence of a larger network led by a Nigerian national currently on the run. The alleged supplier is believed to be based in Mali, while several accomplices, including a woman, are actively sought in Senegal.

Technology-backed investigations

To trace the entire network, the gendarmerie is receiving technical support from Sonatel, which is helping to trace and locate the phone numbers used by the traffickers. The two individuals arrested during the operations were referred to the Kédougou prosecutor's office after their police custody.

A determination reaffirmed

These operations reflect the security forces' commitment to eradicating cross-border crime. The gendarmerie reaffirmed its determination to neutralize all criminal networks that threaten the peace of the region's population and to ensure lasting security in the border areas.