NCJ Number
220317
Journal
Global Crime Volume: 8 Issue: 3 Dated: August 2007 Pages: 193-212
Date Published
August 2007
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This article reviews discussions about emerging African Criminal Networks (ACN) in West Africa generally and within Ghana specifically and presents the results of an empirically based study of the activities of transnational organized criminal (TOC) groups in Ghana.
Abstract
Based on the review and the study of TOC in Ghana, the author argues that many states in Africa have not established effective regulatory mechanisms, which invites particular types of criminal groups. Although the majority of ACN originate in the West African countries of Ghana and Nigeria, the networks have expanded their bases of operations throughout the African continent. This article discusses the nature of the involvement of ACNs in computer crime and Internet fraud, drug trafficking, and the manufacture and smuggling of firearms. The discussions of these crimes focus on modes of ACN recruitment and internal mechanisms for control, codes of conduct, and the resolution of conflicts. Two factors make combating ACNs difficult: the sophistication that enables group members to leave little usable evidence of their crimes, as well as their infiltration into key sectors of Ghana's public and private life. In addition, law enforcement agencies have not been resourced to address ACN crime. There is an urgent need for well-trained and funded security operatives, efficient and effective interagency and intra-agency collaboration within and among countries, the drafting of adequate laws, and the introduction of "whistle-blower" legislation to encourage the sharing of insider information. 2 tables and 49 notes