Drug smuggling in Central Africa: Terror in the Tramadol Rush

A drug smuggling operation fueling violence in Central Africa has been linked to the widespread abuse of tramadol, a painkiller used in Asia, which is smuggled into the Central African Republic via the Democratic Republic of Congo. The illicit drug, consumed excessively by armed groups, has contributed to escalating conflict and brutality in the region. The river Ubangi separates the Central African Republic from the Democratic Republic of Congo, serving as a key route for the smuggling of tramadol. Known locally as “Krikri,” this black-brown powder was previously mixed with gunpowder and inhaled by young militants. They described its effects as providing a sense of invulnerability and suppressing hunger. This practice became prominent during early 2014, when anti-Balaka militias, under the influence of the drug, controlled streets in the capital, Bangui. These fighters were often seen wielding machetes and axes, their eyes red, demeanor erratic, and aggression heightened. Recent reports indicate that “Krikri” has been replaced by a stronger pill known as “Kete Ndongo,” or “small red chili pepper.” This tablet, which contains tramadol, is believed to have similar effects but with greater potency. According to a June report by the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC), these pills are particularly sought after by members of numerous militias controlling large parts of the country. Some users consume up to ten tablets per day, leading to blood levels of around 2,000 milligrams, placing them in a severe trance-like state. Researchers noted that this lack of fear and signs of madness among users can enhance the effectiveness of military operations. Tramadol, originally developed as a synthetic opioid for treating severe and chronic pain, functions by inhibiting the transmission of pain signals in the central nervous system while simultaneously stimulating the release of serotonin. In Germany, it is prescription-only, and the package insert warns of impaired driving ability. A recommended dosage does not exceed 50 to 100 milligrams. However, in the Central African Republic, although legally restricted, these pills are widely available in street markets and pharmacies, sometimes in high doses of 200 milligrams per tablet. The main distribution point for these pills is the Central Market in the PK5 district of Bangui, near the city’s mosque. During the war, Muslims in Bangui were besieged, and “Krikri” was once traded there. Market vendors told GI-TOC researchers that primarily young men purchase these pills. They help them endure the dark, narrow shafts of gold mines without experiencing fear or hunger. The Central African Republic has been embroiled in a cycle of violence since the 2013 civil war, when the Muslim rebel alliance Séléka captured the capital and ousted former long-time dictator François Bozizé. Bozizé had previously founded the anti-Balaka militia, which expelled Séléka through extreme force in late 2013, carried out massacres against the Muslim minority, and eventually led to the election of current president Faustin-rchange Touadéra in 2016. Touadéra invited Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group in 2018, officially to support security efforts. The continued presence of foreign forces and local militias has exacerbated tensions, with tramadol abuse playing a role in sustaining cycles of violence and instability.