Bolivia has carried out drug hunts for drug suspects recently. According to multiple sources including the BBC, a number of operations against drug trafficking have been carried out for several years leading to the arrest of many drug traffickers, along with seizing several thousand tons of substances in Bolivia, one of Latin America’s most impoverished nations. In the last month, Bolivia — the world’s third largest producer of coca after Colombia and Peru — made a drive to hunt an alleged international drug trafficker, Sebastián Marset, in the Bolivian city of Santa Cruz. Though drug trafficking has not yet come under control in the South American country, a key transit point for drugs, its relentless efforts are good steps to reducing drug trafficking.
It is to note that many anti-drug operations have brought notable outcomes including a significant decrease in coca cultivation and cocaine production. The eradication of large-scale coca plantations, which has significantly disrupted the production and distribution of illegal drugs, is rendered a notable accomplishment. Additionally, the efforts of law enforcement agencies have led to the dismantling of drug trafficking networks and destroying more than one hundred cocaine laboratories that allowed the refining of cocaine, further weakening the illicit drug trade in Bolivia. But there are limitations in the efforts. Corruption within law enforcement agencies poses a significant challenge, as it allows drug cartels to operate with impunity and undermines the success of anti-drug operations. Additionally, a lack of resources and funding hinders the government’s ability to effectively combat drug trafficking in Bolivia, home to foreign criminal organizations including Brazilian groups.
Reducing drug trafficking at a tolerable level has definitely beneficial outcomes for Bolivia. It can reduce violence and crime rates, along with improving social and economic development, as resources that were previously allocated toward combating drug-related problems can be redirected toward development. But social, economic and other causes, along with the limitations of anti-drug operations, put hindrances to fighting drug trafficking in Bolivia. The geographical location of Bolivia — which shares borders with major drug-producing countries such as Peru and Brazil— definitely makes it easier for drug cartels to transport illegal substances across borders and use it as a transit route. But, among others, poverty and limited economic opportunities in certain regions also notably contribute to the involvement of individuals in drug trafficking as a means to earn income.
It is desired that drug trafficking is reduced further in Bolivia. But implementing stricter border control measures and increasing international cooperation is crucial for disrupting the operations of drug cartels by improving intelligence sharing and coordinating efforts to dismantle their networks effectively. By addressing the root causes of drug production and trafficking including poverty and a lack of opportunities, Bolivia can reduce drug trafficking. Providing alternative livelihoods for vulnerable people with increased economic opportunities can be helpful. Options also need to be kept for coming back to social life for those drug traffickers who are willing to do so. But investing in rehabilitation programs is definitely crucial to bring back drug gangs.
Amir M Sayem
Chief Editor
Dhaka Opinion Magazine
