In a significant operation, Burkinabé customs have seized a large quantity of prohibited goods on the Cinkassé-Ouagadougou corridor. The seized items include over 20,400 cans of Vody and Desperados, products subject to the Patriotic Support Fund (PSF), and more than 1.3 million unauthorized tablets hidden in trucks transporting clinker. The goods were presented to the public on Friday, October 9, 2026, in Ouagadougou.
According to Dr. Yves Kafando, the seized products are subject to the PSF, and their interception is of great importance. He emphasized that the PSF plays a crucial role in the country's efforts to reconquer its territory, and the seizure of these goods prevents them from endangering citizens' lives. The tablets were found to be non-homologated and unauthorized on Burkinabé territory.
The driver of the truck, who was transporting the prohibited goods, revealed that he was motivated by financial difficulties. He had debts to pay, including 200,000 FCFA needed for his wedding expenses. Unable to secure a loan from his employer, he turned to other sources and eventually accepted an offer to transport the cans of Desperados, which he believed would help him settle his debts.
The Director-General of Customs emphasized that this modus operandi is becoming increasingly common. He stated that his agents are mobilized across the country to put an end to these practices, which compromise revenue mobilization. He urged transporters, economic operators, and importers to work with professionals when handling their goods.
The Director-General announced that an operation, dubbed "Opération Magna," is currently underway to combat these practices. He promised that the results of the operation would be presented soon and that it would lead to significant changes. He also commended the Customs agents for their work and encouraged them to remain vigilant.
The seized goods are a significant blow to the country's efforts to combat smuggling and unauthorized trade. The Burkinabé authorities have been working to strengthen their border controls and prevent the circulation of prohibited goods. The presentation of the seized goods to the public serves as a warning to those involved in such activities.
The authorities' efforts to combat smuggling and unauthorized trade are ongoing, with a focus on protecting the country's economy and citizens. The seizure of these prohibited goods demonstrates the country's commitment to enforcing its laws and regulations.
Key points
- The Burkinabé customs seized over 1.3 million prohibited tablets and 20,400 cans of alcohol on the Cinkassé-Ouagadougou corridor.
- The seized products are subject to the Patriotic Support Fund (PSF) and were found to be non-homologated and unauthorized on Burkinabé territory.
- The authorities have launched an operation, "Opération Magna," to combat smuggling and unauthorized trade practices.
