Senegal: Customs Seize Nearly One Tonne of Counterfeit Medicines

The Mobile Customs Brigade of Koungheul, under the Kaffrine Customs Subdivision, has intercepted nearly one tonne of counterfeit medicines during a major overnight operation conducted between March 25 and 26, 2026.

According to customs authorities, the operation was carried out following a strategic intelligence tip. Officers launched a coordinated intervention along the Dimiskha–Missirah and Koucoto–Mbaye-Mbaye corridors, leading to the interception of two vehicles transporting illicit pharmaceutical products.

Officials reported that the confiscated shipment weighed a total of 916 kilograms. The seized items included a wide range of counterfeit and unregulated products, such as antibiotics, analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs, aphrodisiacs, and various veterinary medicines.

With the assistance of a local pharmacist from the Senegalese Private Pharmacists’ Union, authorities estimated the value of the seized goods at more than 118 million CFA francs.

Customs authorities said the operation forms part of intensified efforts by the Senegalese Customs Administration to dismantle pharmaceutical crime networks operating in the region.

Officials further noted that removing the counterfeit medicines from circulation is aimed at reducing the significant public health risks posed by unregulated pharmaceutical products to both human and animal populations.