The Burkinabé National Gendarmerie has conducted a series of successful operations in the regions of Zabré, Cinkansé, and Dialgaye, resulting in the seizure of significant quantities of smuggled goods. As part of Operation WIBGA 3, the gendarmerie has been working to combat illicit trafficking and economic crime in the Nakambé region. In August 2026, the Zabré Territorial Brigade participated in the operation, leading to the interception of numerous individuals and the seizure of 76 sacks of 50kg fertilizer, six sacks of 25kg fertilizer, and 15 drums of 25 liters of gasoline each.

Further operations were carried out in September and October 2026, resulting in additional seizures. On September 22, 2026, the Cinkansé Territorial Brigade conducted a search in a courtyard located on the border with Togo, seizing 35 cartons of "YES" brand cigarettes with an estimated market value of 5,600,000 CFA francs. The gendarmerie's efforts demonstrate their commitment to disrupting smuggling networks and protecting the country's economic sovereignty.

On October 2, 2026, the Dialgaye Territorial Brigade intercepted a RAV4 vehicle with license plate 6547 F2 10 BF, which was found to be carrying a large shipment of smuggled "YES" brand cigarettes, totaling approximately 36 cartons. The gendarmerie has reported that all seized goods and individuals have been handed over to the relevant authorities for further judicial proceedings.

The Burkinabé National Gendarmerie has praised the dedication of its personnel in upholding the law and protecting people and property. The gendarmerie has also commended the local population for their exemplary collaboration and urged all Burkinabé citizens to support the Defense and Security Forces in their efforts to combat smuggling networks.

The seizures made during these operations demonstrate the significant threat posed by smuggling to Burkina Faso's economic sovereignty. The gendarmerie's efforts to disrupt these networks are crucial in protecting the country's economy and ensuring the well-being of its citizens.

The Burkinabé National Gendarmerie's operations in Zabré, Cinkansé, and Dialgaye are part of a broader effort to combat illicit trafficking and economic crime in the region. The gendarmerie's commitment to protecting the country's economic interests and upholding the law is evident in their continued efforts to disrupt smuggling networks.

The successful operations conducted by the Burkinabé National Gendarmerie serve as a testament to the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities in combating crime. The gendarmerie's efforts have resulted in significant seizures of smuggled goods, demonstrating their effectiveness in disrupting smuggling networks and protecting the country's economy.

Key points

  • The Burkinabé National Gendarmerie seized 76 sacks of fertilizer and 35 cartons of cigarettes in operations across three regions.
  • The estimated market value of the seized cigarettes is 5,600,000 CFA francs.
  • The gendarmerie has urged all Burkinabé citizens to support the Defense and Security Forces in their efforts to combat smuggling networks.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.