On 30 July 2022, SEACOP co-organised the signing of the Joint Maritime Control Units protocol between Benin’s national competent Law Enforcement Agencies, including representatives of the Police républicaine, Customs, Navy and the Préfet Maritime.
The signature was held at the Office of the Préfet maritime in the presence of SEACOP Deputy Regional Coordinator for West Africa Akizi Egnim Akala, representatives of the EU Delegation in Cotonou, and from the UNODC.
Benin has benefited from SEACOP’s support since the very first phase back in 2012, up until now. This signing ceremony marks the formalisation of the partnership, through the official creation of the JMCU, MIU and discussions about the upcoming signature of an MoU.
Building on the achievements of the four first phases, SEACOP V aims to continue contributing to the fight against maritime illicit trade and associated criminal networks in the targeted countries of West Africa, including Benin, Latin America and the Caribbean. Consistent with human rights, the project seeks to help alleviate illicit trafficking’s negative impact on security, public health and socio-economic development.
