Côte d'Ivoire's Minister of Interior and Security, General Vagondo Diomandé, launched Operation "Épervier 12" on October 29, 2026, in Bouaké. The operation aims to combat crime, drug trafficking, juvenile delinquency, and road incivicism. It brings together various security agencies, including the National Police, National Gendarmerie, Armed Forces, Customs, Water and Forestry, and the National Office for Civil Protection (ONPC).
The operation is designed to strengthen the security of people and property, destroy drug dens, and dismantle networks of narcotics and counterfeit medication trafficking. According to the Minister, Operation "Épervier 12" will be deployed in 12 police prefectures. The goal is to consolidate gains, anticipate threats, and secure the end-of-year festivities. General Diomandé highlighted the results of previous operations in Bouaké, including the arrest of 151 individuals and the seizure of 17 motorcycles on July 2, 2025.
The Minister also recalled the success of Operation "Épervier 11," which led to the arrest of six individuals and the seizure of narcotics and diverted medications on June 3, 2026. Since September 2026, Bouaké has been part of Operation "Épervier spécial," also deployed in Korhogo and Daloa. In the first ten days of the operation, 56 drug dens were destroyed, approximately 183 tons of illicit medications were seized, over 3,500 vehicles were impounded, and 196 individuals were brought before the courts.
General Vagondo Diomandé called on the population, economic operators, transporters, and neighborhood chiefs to collaborate with security forces. He emphasized that a tip from a citizen led to the dismantling of a trafficking network on June 3, 2026. The Minister reaffirmed the state's commitment to continuing operations against crime and praised the engagement of defense and security forces.
Operation "Épervier 12" is the 12th edition of the initiative, which has been ongoing for several years. The operation is expected to enhance security in the country, particularly during the end-of-year festivities. General Diomandé stressed the importance of cooperation between security agencies and the population in achieving the operation's objectives.
The launch of Operation "Épervier 12" demonstrates the Ivoirian government's determination to tackle crime and improve security in the country. The operation's success will depend on the collaboration of all stakeholders, including the population, security agencies, and economic operators. The Minister's call for cooperation and vigilance is expected to yield positive results in the fight against crime.
Key outcomes of Operation "Épervier spécial" in Bouaké, Korhogo, and Daloa include the destruction of 56 drug dens and the seizure of 183 tons of illicit medications. The operation has also led to the impounding of over 3,500 vehicles and the prosecution of 196 individuals. The government is expected to continue its efforts to combat crime and improve security in the country.
Key points
- Operation "Épervier 12" aims to combat crime, drug trafficking, and juvenile delinquency in Côte d'Ivoire.
- The operation brings together various security agencies to strengthen security and destroy drug dens.
- The government has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing operations against crime and improving security in the country.
