Four Arrested in Sal Island Drug Trafficking Raid
Authorities on the Cape Verdean island of Sal have dismantled a suspected drug trafficking ring, placing four Nigerian men in pretrial detention following a targeted operation in the city of Santa Maria.
Targeted Raid in Santa Maria
Cape Verde’s Judicial Police (PJ) announced on Wednesday that the suspects, aged 25 to 42, were arrested in “flagrante delicto” during a Sunday operation. The arrests are the culmination of an investigation into high-risk drug trafficking in the popular tourist hub.
Investigators identified the alleged ringleader as a 42-year-old man holding dual Nigerian and Cape Verdean citizenship. According to the PJ, the individual was already well-known to law enforcement, with a history of suspected involvement in drug distribution in Santa Maria dating back to 2013.
Seized Evidence and Contraband
During the coordinated raid, officers seized a variety of items used in the narcotics trade, including precision scales—one of which tested positive for cocaine residue—white cutting agents, and specialized packaging materials. Police also recovered a bladed weapon and several mobile phones intended for evidentiary review.
In addition to the drug paraphernalia, authorities confiscated a cache of mixed currencies, totaling over 230,000 Cape Verdean escudos (approximately €2,080), along with amounts of Euros, U.S. Dollars, CFA francs, and Nigerian Naira.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
Following an initial judicial interrogation, the District Court ordered all four men to be held in pretrial detention. They have been transported to the regional prison on Sal, where they will remain as the legal proceedings move forward.
The operation marks a significant move by Cape Verdean authorities to crack down on long-term criminal activities in Santa Maria, as the nation continues to battle the influence of high-risk drug trafficking within its borders.
Image: Pexels – Rob Mowe
