Malian customs agents at Modibo Keïta International Airport have intercepted over €1 million in an operation targeting cross-border crime and terrorism financing.
This significant seizure is part of Mali’s ongoing efforts to combat illicit activities threatening the country’s economic stability and national security.
The Directorate of Intelligence and Customs Investigations’ Targeting Unit flagged a Malian traveler attempting to transport hidden currency concealed in two carefully wrapped packages. The suspect was assisted by an accomplice with an airport access badge, who attempted to bypass customs controls.
Alert customs agents foiled the attempt, and the accomplice, who tried to flee, was apprehended and handed over to the authorities.
This interception is one in a series of recent seizures by Malian customs, emphasizing the country’s role as a transit hub for illegal currency transport:
August 2024: €500,000 discovered in a package at Bamako airport, bound for Congo-Brazzaville.
Days later: €70,000 seized from a passenger traveling to Dubai via Addis Ababa.
The motives behind these illegal transfers include money laundering, financing of criminal or terrorist activities, and tax evasion.
Unregulated capital flows present severe risks to Mali’s economic stability and efforts to counter terrorism. The Malian government has reiterated its commitment to securing borders and addressing these challenges.
This seizure coincides with Mali hosting the 12th UEMOA Customs Officers Forum, focusing on the theme of “Fragile Borders in a World Facing Terrorism and Crime.”
