Guinea-Bissau Cocaine Trade Under Scrutiny After Recent Events

Guinea-Bissau has historically played a significant role in international cocaine trafficking. During the mid-2000s, the country gained notoriety as a potential “narco state,” with instances of washed-up cocaine being used for construction and traffickers openly displaying wealth.

Current Cocaine Market

The cocaine market in Guinea-Bissau is currently experiencing a boom, reportedly more profitable than at any previous point. Significant quantities of cocaine, estimated at 4 tonnes regularly, are trafficked through the country. Colombian nationals are frequently observed in the capital’s high-end hotels, and the retail prices of cocaine and crack have decreased.

Unusual Lack of Violence

Despite the thriving drug trade, violence directly linked to cocaine trafficking is uncommon in Bissau. When violence does occur, it has typically been politically motivated, involving coups or assassinations of high-ranking political figures. Ordinary citizens have largely been unaffected.

Recent Incidents

Recent rumors of a Spaniard being murdered in the Bijagos archipelago, a key offshore transshipment point, proved false. However, the rumors highlighted a potential shift towards increased violence. Shortly after, the body of a man was discovered near the Mansoa River. The discovery, occurring soon after the man’s disappearance, suggests a deliberate message or a lack of professional execution.

Identified Victims

The deceased was identified as Tano Bari, a member of Guinea-Bissau’s presidential guard. Simultaneously, a Colombian cocaine trafficker was shot in the leg by a member of the military. The shooting was reportedly linked to a stolen cocaine consignment, with the shooter allegedly working for Danilson Fernandes Gomes Ié, known as ‘Nick,’ a prominent cocaine trafficker. The injured Colombian subsequently fled to Spain.

Market Impact and Potential Connections

Following the shooting, the wholesale price of cocaine in Bissau significantly decreased, reflecting an attempt to quickly sell the stolen drugs. The connection between the murder of Tano Bari and the shooting of the Colombian remains unclear, but both incidents have raised concerns about a potential escalation of violence.

Political Context

Guinea-Bissau’s cocaine economy is closely intertwined with its political landscape. Historically, violence in the drug trade has coincided with periods of political instability. The country is preparing for legislative and presidential elections in November, and recent events include the replacement of the attorney general and the prime minister, alongside increased restrictions on press freedom. The combination of a robust cocaine market and the financial demands of upcoming elections suggests a period of potential upheaval.