Burkina Faso Customs Seizes 267 Bags of Cyanide Concealed Under Rice Shipment

Cinkanse: Customs officers from the Cinkanse Customs Office intercepted a convoy transporting 267 bags of cyanide fraudulently concealed under bags of rice. The operation took place on Thursday, October 23, 2025, as reported by the communication department of the General Directorate of Customs.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the shipment was falsely presented as food but actually contained a highly toxic product, which poses significant risks to human health and the environment if mishandled. This discovery follows the recent seizure by the Kaya Mobile Brigade of 200 drums of cyanide, highlighting ongoing dangerous trafficking activities that demand continuous vigilance.

Divisional Inspector Yves Kafando, Director General of Customs, praised the vigilance and determination of the agents in Cinkanse. He emphasized the need for citizen support to combat activities that endanger public safety. 'Dangerous trafficking does not only threaten the economy. It threatens lives. Together, let us remain vigilant, because national security is built on every attentive eye and every responsible report,' stated Mr. Kafando.

The customs administration reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the national territory from the introduction of harmful products, assuring that traffickers will be vigorously opposed at all borders of the country.