Benin: Police apprehends a suspected fake facilitator operating near the port of Cotonou.

On Monday, August 31, 2026, officers from the Special Police Unit of the Port Authority of Cotonou apprehended an individual who had been specializing in defrauding truck drivers.

The case began with reports of extortion allegedly committed by officers of the Republican Police. In response to these accusations, which were damaging the police’s reputation, a discreet investigation was launched.

Investigations quickly revealed that no police officers were involved in these practices, instead highlighting the actions of a single individual posing as an official.

The suspect had targeted the road connecting the Caboma intersection to the Zongo mosque. Taking advantage of frequent traffic jams and truck congestion, he would approach drivers, posing as a “facilitator” acting on behalf of law enforcement agencies.

They were promised expedited access to the inland port in exchange for payments of money, purportedly intended to bribe or compensate police officers stationed in the area.

Caught by the surveillance measures implemented following the complaints, the fraudster was apprehended in the act. He is currently being held for questioning, and a legal process is underway to determine the full extent of his crimes and to identify any potential accomplices.

The police are using this opportunity to remind the public that the fraudulent impersonation of law enforcement officers is a serious crime and is subject to severe penalties. They are also urging victims of such scams to come forward and report them.