Malian customs authorities successfully intercepted 82 balls of cannabis on April 13, 2026, at the Hèrèmakono border post, a key transit point along the corridor connecting Mali and Burkina Faso.
The narcotics were discovered in the possession of two female passengers traveling on a minibus arriving from a neighboring country. This operation is the latest in a series of high-profile seizures at the post, which has seen intensified activity from customs agents since late 2024.
The Hèrèmakono post, situated in the Sikasso region, is a vital gateway for both commercial trade and passenger movement between southern Mali and Burkina Faso. Due to its strategic location, it has become a focal point for authorities attempting to dismantle illicit trafficking networks. The border has faced sustained pressure, with previous major busts including 16.5 kilograms of cannabis in November 2024 and a large shipment of counterfeit pharmaceuticals intercepted just weeks ago on March 20, 2026.
These recurring interceptions underscore a broader trend of heightened border security aimed at curbing the flow of narcotics and prohibited goods. Customs officials have noted that the sophistication of smuggling methods—often involving public transport and concealed cargo—requires constant vigilance. The most recent seizure highlights the ongoing success of these strengthened controls in a zone that remains highly sensitive for regional security and trade integrity.
MD/te/Sf/lb/abj/APA