US to train Law Enforcement Agents on Transnational Drug Trafficking

Special Agents from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), will host an advanced-level course for 35 law enforcement, prosecutors, magistrates, and training personnel from Botswana, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Togo.

In a press statement made available to NEWSVERGE, the training addresses the growing threat of transnational drug trafficking across West and Southern Africa, where criminal networks are increasingly using the region as a transit and distribution hub for illicit narcotics.

The course strengthens participants’ capacity to lead complex investigations, with a focus on international controlled deliveries, conspiracy cases, inter-agency coordination, and operational planning—reinforced through scenario-based exercises.

All programs at the International Law Enforcement Academy – Gaborone are intended to bring partner countries together to promote cross-border cooperation and enhance regional efforts to disrupt organized drug crime. Established in 2000, the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) Gaborone is Africa’s premier institution for law enforcement training and regional security cooperation.

ILEA Gaborone isa joint initiative between the United States and the Government of Botswana, ILEA Gaborone has trained over 18,000 law enforcement and justice officials from more than 38 African nations. Backed by Botswana’s annual in-kind support and staffed by instructors from 16 U.S. agencies, ILEA delivers cutting-edge instruction on transnational crime, fostering lasting U.S.-Africa partnerships.