Mexican cartel methamphetamine production in Africa

Mexican drug cartels, specifically the Sinaloa Cartel, have established industrial-scale methamphetamine production networks across Africa to target high-value markets in Australia and New Zealand. These operations utilize precursor chemicals sourced from China and India.

In South Africa, authorities dismantled a laboratory near Swartruggens capable of producing five tonnes of crystal meth per month, with an estimated wholesale value of $1 billion in Australia. Investigations indicate that individuals posing as tourists have been used to set up these facilities, leveraging South Africa’s maritime connections and vast land areas for concealment.

The criminal activity has expanded beyond South Africa into other African nations. In Nigeria, authorities dismantled laboratories in Ogun and Oyo states, resulting in the arrest of Mexican nationals. Similar arrests involving Mexican nationals and the seizure of precursor chemicals have also been reported in Maputo, Mozambique. Security analysts suggest that insecure borders and corruption risks across the continent facilitate the growth of these transnational networks.