COTONOU — Benin authorities have intensified their crackdown on suspected drug-trafficking networks after 52 people were arrested during a major police operation in Godomey, in the Abomey-Calavi area.

The operation was carried out as part of wider efforts by the Republican Police to disrupt suspected networks involved in drug trafficking and illegal distribution.

The arrests represent one of the latest major security operations targeting organized drug activity in Benin. Authorities are expected to continue investigations as they work to establish the identities and roles of those detained.

The operation has renewed attention on the growing challenge of drug trafficking and related criminal networks across West Africa, where authorities are strengthening intelligence-sharing and law-enforcement cooperation.

Security experts say sustained operations, combined with stronger border controls and community-based prevention, will be important in limiting the expansion of illegal drug markets.

The Godomey raid underscores Benin’s intensifying security response as authorities step up efforts to disrupt suspected trafficking networks and protect communities from drug-related crime.