Over time, this activity has grown into an empire with the criminals raking in millions on a daily basis.
In yesterday’s edition of The Point, we published an article in which security apparatuses from The Gambia and Senegal have signed an agreement to stop cross-border crimes in both countries.
This agreement comes following the recent arrest of a Gambian man, who illegally constructed a clandestine mini-hydraulic borehole on the border between Senegal and The Gambia, about 6km north of Médina-Mary (southern Gambissara village).
What is even important about this agreement is the operational plan to manage security at the borders of two countries which will be developed and implemented. This will make it easy for securities in both countries to collaborate and combat illegal activities along the border.
It is a fact that the control and regulation of cross-border activities are essential for ensuring peace and stability. What is even worrying is that the porous borders of West Africa; however, continue to engender cross-border crime and instability in the sub-region, owing to the lack of an appropriate mechanism for monitoring movements and illegal activities across these borders.
Tackling cross border crime requires a well-coordinated approach and no single country can do it. Despite the activity being a global phenomenon, Africa is the most affected due to the porous borders and weak border patrol.
Criminals continue to operate and smuggle illicit drugs, contraband and arms, thus endangering the lives of millions.
Now, according to the agreement, the security chiefs in the two countries have announced and given directives on setting up of a combined and parallel mixed patrol and joint operations in military zones No. 3, 6 and particularly in zone no. 5.
This will go a long way in curbing illicit activities along the border of the two countries.
Let’s remember that to effectively combat criminal networks involved in illegal activities along our borders, law enforcement officers must continuously improve their skills and stay up-to-date with the latest information on how these criminals operate.
This will give them a clue of every activity they are planning as well as develop tactics to apprehend them. Together, we can improve security and combat illegal activities along our borders.