The regional branch of the Central Office for the Repression of Illicit Drug Trafficking (OCRTIS) in Agadez conducted three separate operations on August 4, 7, and 8, 2026, marking a significant intervention against narcotics trafficking. These carefully planned interventions, spanning five days, resulted in the seizure of a substantial quantity of illegal substances and the apprehension of multiple individuals involved in the illicit trade. Authorities confiscated a total of 37 kilograms of cannabis during the multi-day effort, demonstrating the scale of the operations. Additionally, the operations led to the seizure of 250 Tramadol tablets, effectively targeting drug trafficking activities in the region and disrupting supply chains.
First Operation at Azel Barrier
The initial operation occurred on August 4 at the Azel road barrier, strategically situated just outside Agadez. During this critical intervention, authorities successfully intercepted three individuals traveling in a Toundra vehicle. The careful operation led to the seizure of 10.380 kilograms of cannabis, which had been expertly packaged into 25 distinct balls, indicating an organized distribution effort. This early success set the tone for the subsequent interventions by OCRTIS Agadez.
Market Bust and Subsequent Arrests
A second operation took place on August 7, focusing on activities during the bustling Agadez city market. During this intervention, authorities arrested two individuals who were found to be in possession of high-risk narcotic products. Their illicit possession included 250 Tramadol tablets and two pregabalin capsules, noting the variety of substances being trafficked. The third operation commenced on August 8, initiated after authorities received credible information regarding three individuals possessing a significant quantity of narcotics. This final intervention, following intelligence gathering, led to the seizure of 8.395 kilograms of cannabis, further crippling the drug network.
Confiscated Assets and Total Seizures
Investigators also confiscated several assets believed to be directly linked to the illicit drug trade, showing the financial gains associated with such activities. Among the items seized were a Toyota Corolla LE vehicle and a Haojue motorcycle, both likely used for transportation in the drug distribution process. Authorities additionally took possession of a Samsung phone, often a key tool for communication within these networks. The operation further resulted in the seizure of 145,000 CFA francs in currency, representing proceeds from drug sales. These items were secured as part of the full five-day intervention by OCRTIS Agadez. The seizures show the financial and logistical aspects of the drug trafficking networks targeted by law enforcement in the region, providing valuable evidence for prosecution. The confiscated assets are expected to be held as evidence in ongoing investigations, contributing to a stronger legal case against the arrested individuals.
OCRTIS Determination
These concerted operations led to the arrest of eight individuals, significantly impacting the regional drug trade. Authorities seized a total of 16,802 units of pregabalin during the efforts, in addition to the cannabis and Tramadol. A subsequent search of the suspects' home yielded a substantial discovery: 16,800 pregabalin capsules and 12 balls of cannabis, adding considerably to the total haul and revealing deeper caches of illicit substances. The overall seized assets from the entire five-day campaign include two vehicles, two motorcycles, several mobile phones, and a total of 600,000 CFA francs. In summary, the operations resulted in the seizure of a total of 37 kilograms of cannabis, 16,802 units of pregabalin, and 250 Tramadol tablets. OCRTIS Agadez conducted these intensive and successful interventions as part of its unwavering commitment to combating illicit drug trafficking and ensuring public safety in the region.