CPLP: Synthetic Drug Consumption Increases
In the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), the consumption of synthetic drugs is reshaping global illicit markets, gradually replacing plant-based substances such as cocaine and heroin. This trend is reflected in the increase in overdoses and social harm, as highlighted in the annual report of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB).
The illegal industry takes advantage of ease of production, reduced costs and geographic flexibility, making inspection difficult.
During the report's presentation, CPLP Executive Secretary Zacarias da Costa emphasized that synthetic drugs pose "a mortal threat," with a disproportionate impact on some African countries. INCB representative Mariângela Simão added that the proliferation of these substances is linked to globalization and the lack of effective regulation.
Africa emerges as an epicenter of concern, with the continent serving as a transit route for drug trafficking to Europe. A lack of data and resources exacerbates the crisis, while the use of concoctions like Kush in West Africa intensifies health risks. Prevention and treatment programs are currently insufficient, leaving millions of people without access to essential care.
Public Health Crisis
Synthetic drugs, such as fentanyl and methamphetamine, are up to 100 times more potent than traditional opioids, causing overdoses with minimal doses. The INCB Report confirms that these substances already cause "hundreds of thousands of deaths annually," with young people and the most vulnerable populations being the main victims.
In the CPLP, countries like Angola and Mozambique have seen increasing cases, but precise statistics are lacking to allow for a proper assessment. The illicit manufacture of these drugs generally takes place in mobile laboratories or makeshift facilities, hindering the authorities' action.
Unlike coca or poppy cultivation, synthetic drugs don't require extensive land, making them more profitable for criminal networks. INCB warns that "the same equipment can be used for multiple substances," increasing the diversity of products on the market.
Toxicological risks extend beyond consumers. Chemical residues from illegal manufacturing contaminate soil and groundwater, while law enforcement operations face dangers such as explosions and exposure to toxic fumes. In Southern Africa, several cases of accidental poisoning have been reported in communities near clandestine laboratories.
The crisis is exacerbated by the lack of access to prescription drugs for addiction treatment. Only 10% of individuals with opioid use disorders receive adequate therapy, according to INCB. In CPLP countries, such as Guinea-Bissau and São Tomé and Príncipe, harm reduction services are virtually nonexistent.
Tramadol, a synthetic painkiller, has become a particular problem in West Africa. Misused for its psychoactive properties, the substance is trafficked in large quantities, often mixed with other drugs. INCB highlights that "the diversion of legitimate medications for illicit purposes is a growing trend."
To combat the crisis, INCB recommends expanding forensic laboratories and conducting awareness campaigns. However, many CPLP countries lack infrastructure and funding, limiting the implementation of effective measures.
Combat Strategies
INCB and CPLP strengthened partnerships to share operational intelligence, using platforms such as the Incident Reporting System (IONICS). In 2024, this tool facilitated the exchange of information on 100.000 trafficking incidents, resulting in operations such as the "African Star," which seized 115.000 units of illegal drugs in East Africa.
INCB's GRIDS Program focused on controlling chemical precursors, essential for the manufacture of synthetic drugs. In December 2024, 16 amphetamine-type stimulant precursors were placed under international control, hindering access by criminal groups. However, the illicit industry adapts quickly, using unregulated "pre-precursors."
The need to empower local authorities with tools to combat drug trafficking is another priority. Through the INCB Learning program, more than 1.500 officials from 154 countries have received training in drug control. In Angola, subregional workshops addressed estimating medical needs and preventing diversion, but many logistical challenges remain.
Public-private partnerships have gained prominence, with e-commerce platforms collaborating in identifying illegal sellers. In the CPLP, countries like Portugal and Brazil have made progress in regulating dual-use chemicals, while Cape Verde has implemented port search systems.
Despite progress, legal loopholes allow criminals to exploit emerging technologies. INCB warns that "artificial intelligence can be used to create new molecular structures," anticipating a race between illicit innovation and regulatory oversight.
At the regional level, the CPLP has proposed harmonizing anti-drug laws, but legal differences between members hinder coordinated action. While Portugal invests in harm reduction, Angola maintains more repressive policies, also reflecting disparities in approach.
Impact on Africa
Africa is the scene of large-scale trafficking, with the Sahel serving as a corridor for cocaine destined for Europe. Record seizures in the region confirm the infiltration of international networks, but a lack of data hinders effective responses. INCB emphasizes that "the use of kush in West Africa is a health time bomb."
In East Africa, methamphetamine dominates illicit markets, surpassing demand for cannabis and heroin. Countries like Kenya and Uganda have reported 300% increases in seizures since 2022, but clandestine laboratories continue to operate in rural areas.
South Africa faces a parallel crisis with whoonga, a mixture of synthetic drugs and antiretrovirals. Poor communities are the most affected, with addiction rates exceeding 40% in some urban areas. Treatment programs are scarce, and social stigma prevents many from seeking help.
The INCB Report also highlights the increase in ketamine trafficking in East Africa, a substance diverted from veterinary use. In Mozambique, authorities seized 500 kg of the drug in 2023, but the lack of testing equipment makes accurate identification difficult.
Afghanistan's 2022 poppy cultivation ban has had side effects in Africa. Traffickers have turned to synthetic heroin (nitazene), already detected in Cape Verde and Guinea-Bissau. Fatal overdoses have been recorded, but many countries lack emergency protocols.
INCB urged African states to "simplify controls during humanitarian emergencies," ensuring access to essential medicines. However, armed conflicts in the Sahel region and the DRC complicate the distribution of resources.
International Responses
The United Nations Convention on Cybercrime, adopted in 2024, aims to combat the online trafficking of synthetic drugs. INCB hopes that ratification of the convention by CPLP countries will strengthen legal cooperation, but only Angola and Portugal have joined the initiative so far.
In Europe, record cocaine seizures reflect the sophistication of criminal networks. Portugal, mentioned in the INCB Report, detected high concentrations of ketamine in wastewater, indicating increasing drug consumption. The EU expanded the mandate of its Anti-Drugs Agency, but several critics point to flaws in port surveillance.
Brazil, a member of the CPLP, has become a hub for precursor chemicals used in the manufacture of methamphetamine. Some joint operations with Paraguay have resulted in million-dollar seizures, but corruption undermines local efforts.
Timor-Leste, the newest member of the CPLP, faces unique challenges with maritime trafficking. The lack of coast guards and radar allows synthetic drugs to enter undetected, fueling informal markets.
Conclusion
The rise of synthetic drugs in the CPLP requires a multifaceted response, combining surveillance, public health, and international cooperation. INCB recommends the implementation of coordinated national strategies, but these strategies vary depending on resources and political priorities.
Africa remains a critical region, with gaps in data, treatment, and border control. The CPLP, despite progress in information sharing, needs to harmonize laws and expand funding for harm reduction programs.
What do you think of this increase in the consumption of synthetic drugs in the CPLP? We want to hear your opinion. Don't hesitate to comment. And if you liked the article, share it and give it a like.
Picture: © 2019 DR
