Maputo (Mozambique), 28 August 2024 – In recent years, Mozambique has been increasingly affected by global drug trafficking routes, evidenced by a dramatic rise in drug seizures.
From 2020 to 2021 alone, methamphetamine seizures skyrocketed by an astounding 6218%, and cocaine seizures surged by 150%.
As the country grapples with these alarming trends, effective drug detection and safety measures are more critical than ever.
To address these challenges, UNODC has been at the forefront of enhancing drug enforcement capabilities within the Mozambican criminal investigation agency – SERNIC –, including through the phased provision of Raman TruNarc devices, a state-of-the-art tool that allows for accurate drug testing and identification.
To ensure these devices are used to their full potential, UNODC carries out complementary in-the-lab trainings that enable criminalistic lab technicians and front-line officers to conduct their duties in accordance with international standards while maintaining compliance with human rights.
The latest training, the third of its kind since 2022, covered essential topics such as chemical safety, the proper use of personal protective equipment, preliminary testing and the principles of confirmatory analysis.
Participants engaged in hands-on testing of over 100 samples. This practical approach allowed participants to familiarize themselves with the Raman TruNarc’s functionalities and to develop confidence in operating the device and understanding its limitations.
Positive feedback from participants highlighted the training's impact. One participant noted it was "a great learning opportunity and very useful," while another emphasized how the course was "an asset to the training of front-line criminalistic technicians," that had helped participants improve their handling of the TruNarc device.
To support continued learning, a digital package of UNODC publications, including Raman guidelines and Portuguese-language resources, was provided to participants.
This training is part of UNODC’s broader efforts to strengthen Mozambique’s response to drug trafficking. In addition to technical training, UNODC supports a wide range of capacity-building efforts for criminal justice professionals, focusing on areas such as supply chain disruption, data analysis, and cyber investigations.
UNODC also enabled the creation of a national anti-drug trafficking focal point network, and regularly facilitates collaboration with other countries, particularly within the Community of Portuguese Language Countries and in the framework of the Trilateral Planning Cell, composed by Mozambique, Tanzania and South Africa.
These initiatives have enhanced cross-border cooperation, improved information sharing, and fostered more effective drug control measures.
By equipping officials with advanced tools and knowledge, UNODC supports Mozambique in efforts to tackle drug trafficking head-on and respond more adeptly to the evolving challenges in this field.
This laboratory training was made possible through funding pledged by Germany.