Statement from the Public Prosecution on the dismantling of a criminal network involved in smuggling and distributing hallucinogenic pills and counterfeiting foreign currency

The Public Prosecution of Western Nouakchott issued a statement on the dismantling of a criminal network involved in smuggling and distributing hallucinogenic pills and counterfeiting foreign currency.The statement reads as follows:

“In the name of God the most Merciful, the most CompassionateWithin the framework of the efforts of the judicial and security authorities aimed at combating organized crime, protecting security at all levels and maintaining public tranquility, the Public Prosecution announces to the national public opinion that following the start of a preliminary investigation by the mixed gendarmerie brigade in the western wilaya of Nouakchott on April 23, 2025, after the discovery of counterfeit foreign banknotes, a criminal network active in the smuggling and distribution of hallucinogenic pills and counterfeiting foreign currency was found, based on careful investigations and effective exploitation of data, in addition to preliminary indications of Some of its elements may be involved in activities related to the sale of unlicensed weapons.
This qualitative security work, carried out on 01/05/2025, resulted in the arrest of thirty-one (31) people – so far – suspected of belonging to this network, and the seizure of five stores containing significant quantities of unlicensed drugs, including banned hallucinogenic pills.

Accordingly, the Public Prosecution decided to place the suspects in garde à vue custody at the mixed gendarmerie brigade, as part of the deepening of the search and the expansion of the investigation to include other parties suspected of being linked to this network, while verifying the nature of the acts attributed to each detainee.
While the Public Prosecution affirms its seriousness in dealing with such crimes, which affect public security and public health, it is:
1- Affirms that the security and judicial authorities will continue to pursue with all determination anyone who seeks to harm the security of the nation and the safety of citizens, and will not hesitate to bring any suspect to justice so that he may receive the punishment prescribed by law, without complacency or delay.
2- Recalls that the ongoing investigations are still in their preliminary stage, and that irresponsible handling of these cases through the media or social media may harm the progress of the investigation, provide data that may benefit some suspects, and subject innocent persons to defamation, which is criminalized by law.

3- Cautions that the only authority authorized to provide information on the course of research and judicial files is the competent authorities, at a time and within limits that do not prejudice the confidentiality of the investigation or the public interest.
4- Calls for respect for legal controls in the exercise of freedom of expression and publication, ensuring that this right is balanced with the requirements of security and public order.
In conclusion, the Public Prosecution affirms that it will deal with this case and other cases that would prejudice the security of the country and the safety of citizens with all seriousness and rigor, and will spare no effort in prosecuting those involved and bringing them to justice, in a manner that ensures the application of the law and protects society from all manifestations of crime and delinquency, based on its responsibility to maintain public order and consolidate the prestige of the state and the rule of law.
God bless”.