The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has commenced an advanced-level training for 35 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, magistrates, and training personnel from seven African countries, including Nigeria, to bolster regional efforts against transnational drug trafficking.
The programme, held at the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) in Gaborone, Botswana, brings together participants from Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Togo, and Botswana. It aims to strengthen capacity in leading complex drug investigations, with emphasis on international controlled deliveries, conspiracy cases, inter-agency coordination, and operational planning.
A statement from the U.S. Embassy noted the growing threat of drug trafficking networks using West and Southern Africa as transit and distribution hubs for illicit narcotics. The training also includes scenario-based exercises to reinforce practical skills.
Established in 2000, ILEA Gaborone is Africa’s leading law enforcement training institution, jointly operated by the U.S. and Botswana. The academy has trained over 18,000 justice sector professionals from more than 38 African countries, promoting cross-border cooperation and advancing regional security.
The initiative is supported by 16 U.S. federal agencies and Botswana’s annual in-kind contributions, reinforcing long-term U.S.-Africa partnerships in tackling organized crime.
