Libya has become a hub for drug smuggling across continents, according to the US-based research centre, The Sentry.
In a recent report, the Centre noted a surge in the illicit drug trade in the country, particularly highlighting a boom in the cannabis trade. The increase is attributed to the recent confiscation of shipments and heightened tensions between coastal cities.
According to the study, the northwestern city of Ajililat played a strategic role during the era of former leader Muammar Gaddafi.
The report details how cannabis can be transported from Morocco to Algeria and then into Libya through the Ghat border crossing after traversing Mauritania, Mali, and Niger.
The Sentry also noted that in addition to hashish, cocaine, and Captagon, other drugs such as Tramadol, Pregabalin, and Clonazepam are widely available.
The research identifies Libya as a critical gateway between European suppliers and the flourishing illegal markets across North Africa and the Sahel region.