Operation Harmattan: West Africa unites against synthetic drug trafficking

A major law enforcement operation under the Airport Communication Project (AIRCOP) has struck a blow against synthetic drug trafficking in West Africa.

Operation Harmattan brought together authorities from Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Nigeria, Mali and Togo to target the trafficking of synthetic drugs through postal shipments and air cargo.

This marks the first coordinated regional effort of its kind, laying the groundwork for closer cross-border cooperation and the exchange of good practices among national law enforcement agencies.

What is AIRCOP?

The Airport Communication Project (AIRCOP) is a global initiative that helps international airports detect and intercept drugs, other illicit goods and high-risk passengers.

Funded by the EU and implemented by UNODC in partnership with INTERPOL and the World Customs Organization, AIRCOP connects airports in Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, South-East Asia and Europe.

AIRCOP strengthens local law enforcement capacities and enables real-time information exchange between origin, transit and destination countries. This cooperation helps disrupt cross-border illicit flows and the criminal networks behind them.

AIRCOP contributes to the EU’s global efforts to counter organised crime, promote security, and build resilient institutions capable of tackling transnational threats.

Key results of Operation Harmattan

Under AIRCOP, Operation Harmattan led to tangible results:

• 13 arrests across the participating countries
• Seizures of fentanyl, tramadol, tobacco, cannabis, cocaine and cash

These outcomes underline the growing threat posed by synthetic drugs in West Africa, as well as the value of coordinated international responses.

Building lasting cooperation

Operation Harmattan has strengthened links between law enforcement agencies in West Africa and their counterparts worldwide.

By sharing intelligence, identifying new trafficking trends and developing joint investigation capabilities, participating countries are better equipped to detect and disrupt drug trafficking before it reaches communities.

This operation is part of the EU’s broader commitment to support peace, security and rule of law worldwide through initiatives like AIRCOP, ensuring that airports remain gateways for legitimate travel and trade, not illicit trafficking.

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