Burkinabe Authorities Uncovers Major Customs Fraud Network Involving Over 3.5 Billion CFA Francs

Burkinabe authorities and the Regional Judicial Police Service of the Centre have uncovered a vast customs fraud network involving over 3.5 billion CFA francs.

The scheme, revealed on Tuesday, May 27, was exposed through an investigation led by the Burkinabe Customs Department for the Fight against Fraud and Territorial Surveillance (DLCF-ST).

The fraudulent network revolved around the creation of fictitious companies that illegally secured customs exemption orders.

These were then exploited by authorized customs brokers (CDA) to import vehicles under false pretenses, bypassing tax obligations.

Authorities identified 219 vehicles involved in the operation, with a combined market value of 2.8 billion CFA francs. The illicit activities have caused a tax loss of 773 million CFA francs.

So far, customs officials have recovered more than 200 million CFA francs and issued fines totaling 241.5 million CFA francs. An additional 95 vehicles, valued at 762.6 million CFA francs, are still under investigation.

The probe also revealed the use of falsified declarations, misuse of temporary admission regimes, and failure to comply with re-export or extension requirements, all in violation of customs laws.

The Burkinabe General Directorate of Customs emphasized its commitment to tax compliance, transparency, and the protection of public resources.

Four additional companies are currently under investigation in what is shaping up to be one of the largest customs fraud cases in Burkina Faso’s recent history.