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Morocco intercepts 38 kilograms of cocaine in El Guerguerat border operation

Thursday 23 January 2025 - 10:50 By: Dakir Madiha

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In a significant crackdown on international drug trafficking, Moroccan authorities at the El Guerguerat border post, located south of Dakhla, successfully intercepted 37 kilograms and 683 grams of cocaine. The operation, carried out with the assistance of sniffer dogs and advanced border control measures, uncovered the illicit substance meticulously concealed within the engines of two international freight trucks bearing Moroccan license plates. The vehicles were reportedly arriving from a sub-Saharan African country.

Two individuals, aged 24 and 47, were apprehended during the operation. Authorities have launched a preliminary investigation to uncover further details surrounding the case and to identify potential accomplices involved in the trafficking network.

This seizure is part of Morocco’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking, which has seen significant success in recent years. In a related operation earlier this week, Moroccan police confiscated 9.8 tons of cannabis and arrested six suspects ranging in age from 29 to 59. The operation was conducted in collaboration with the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST), which provided critical intelligence to the Safi police unit.

### A broader look at Morocco’s anti-drug efforts
Morocco’s commitment to tackling drug-related crimes is evident in its recent statistics. In 2023 alone, Moroccan law enforcement agencies handled 92,346 drug-related cases, resulting in the arrest of 119,692 individuals, including 287 foreign nationals. During these operations, authorities seized a staggering 123 tons and 971 kilograms of cannabis, 1.9 tons of cocaine, 16.5 kilograms of heroin, and over 1.4 million psychotropic tablets.

The El Guerguerat operation underscores Morocco’s strategic position in the global fight against drug trafficking. Situated at the crossroads of Africa and Europe, the country has become a focal point for international criminal networks attempting to smuggle narcotics across borders. By leveraging advanced surveillance techniques and coordinated efforts between various security agencies, Morocco continues to disrupt these networks and safeguard its borders.

As the investigation into the latest seizure unfolds, Moroccan authorities remain vigilant, emphasizing their dedication to eradicating drug trafficking and ensuring the safety and security of the region.