Senegalese authorities have seized nearly 340 million CFA francs in counterfeit banknotes during two separate operations in the country’s south and northwest, highlighting the scale of economic crime networks in the region.
The first operation occurred on August 19, 2025, at the Mpack Customs Post in Ziguinchor.
Officers stopped a Ford Escape near the Aline Sitoé Diatta roundabout and discovered a briefcase containing 514 counterfeit 500-euro notes, valued at 168,580,949 CFA francs.
The driver was arrested and referred to the Ziguinchor Public Prosecutor’s Office.
A second seizure took place in Ngaye Mékhé, carried out by the Lompoul Maritime Brigade. Three individuals were detained in possession of 2,604 counterfeit 100-euro notes, worth approximately 171 million CFA francs. Authorities said the operation dismantled an attempt to launder black money involving a network operating along the Tivaoune–Ngaye Mékhé axis.
The Customs Administration emphasized that these operations form part of a broader effort to combat the forgery of banknotes and attacks on monetary symbols. “The Customs Administration reaffirms its determination to fight against economic and financial crime, particularly counterfeiting,” the General Directorate of Customs (DGD) stated in a press release.
Since January 2025, Senegalese security forces—including Customs, Police, and Gendarmerie—have intensified their efforts against counterfeit currency. According to APA, more than 20 billion CFA francs in black money and counterfeit bills have been seized nationwide this year, exposing the involvement of organized transnational networks.
Officials stressed that these seizures not only prevent the circulation of counterfeit currency but also protect the country’s financial system and economic integrity. The recent operations demonstrate Senegal’s commitment to strengthening enforcement mechanisms against monetary crime and reinforcing public confidence in the national currency.
As authorities continue to target these criminal networks, the message is clear: counterfeiting and money laundering will face relentless scrutiny, with coordinated operations across regions and strategic checkpoints aiming to disrupt illicit financial flows.
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