Cross-border motorcycle trafficking: 2 suspects arrested, several bikes seized in Boukoumbé

Two men suspected of belonging to a motorcycle theft and trafficking ring between Benin and Togo were arrested on November 24, 2025 by law enforcement in Boukoumbé. Several motorcycles of dubious origin were seized.

Police say the ring operated through cross-border exchanges. Motorcycles stolen in Benin were shipped to Togo, while bikes stolen in Togo reappeared in Benin.

This practice greatly complicated tracing the vehicles and sowed confusion among the victims.

The arrest took place following a tip reporting a suspicious transaction near the “Montagnard Bleu” bar-restaurant, on the Boukoumbé road.

À leur arrivée, les policiers ont surpris plusieurs individus. Deux ont été placés en garde à vue, trois autres ont réussi à s’enfuir.

Five motorcycles deemed to be of dubious origin were seized. A few hours later, one of them was formally identified as stolen, following a loss report filed by a citizen.

The investigation continues. Police are seeking to identify other members of the ring, locate possible accomplices, and trace the route of motorcycles already sold.