Sahel police chiefs unite in Niamey to boost security cooperation
Top police officials from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger convened in Ouagadougou this week to solidify their collective security strategy under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The meeting brought together senior law enforcement leaders and technical experts to align policing approaches and address shared security threats across the region.
Strengthening cross-border policing and intelligence sharing
The three-day gathering focused on harmonizing police operations, enhancing inter-agency coordination, and improving information systems to streamline joint investigations. Discussions also centered on tackling transnational crime, including terrorism, arms trafficking, and organized crime networks operating across borders. Participants emphasized the need for unified procedures in crime scene analysis, forensic investigations, and digital evidence handling to bolster investigative efficiency.
Free movement and border security take center stage
Another key agenda item was facilitating safe and regulated movement within the AES zone. Police chiefs outlined plans to standardize border controls, reduce illegal checkpoints, and eliminate corruption at roadblocks to ensure smoother transit for citizens and goods. Reducing bureaucratic hurdles and unifying customs procedures were highlighted as critical steps to foster economic integration and regional stability.
The Burkina Faso delegation, led by Inspector General Thierry Dofizouho Tuina, stressed that police forces must act as driving forces in building a resilient AES. He referenced prior agreements, including January 2025’s Bamako police summit and the July security ministers’ meeting, as foundational to this collaborative effort.
The Mali representative, Police Director General Youssouf Koné, underscored the necessity of pooling resources to meet public security demands and support the confederation’s growth. Meanwhile, Niger’s Police Commissioner General Assahaba Ebankawal pointed to the rising tide of extremist violence and cross-border threats as urgent priorities requiring a unified response.
The summit concluded with a draft action plan to formalize enhanced police cooperation, including joint training programs, shared databases, and synchronized patrols along vulnerable borders. Outcomes are expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, setting the stage for deeper security integration in the Sahel.