Ouagadougou: More than 43 tons of unregistered fertilizers and pesticides were seized by the national gendarmerie in two significant operations. The Ouessa Territorial Gendarmerie Brigade uncovered 42.5 tons of fertilizer and 1.29 tons of unregistered pesticides during operations in May and June, with a total estimated value of nearly 22 million CFA francs, as reported by the Burkina National Gendarmerie's communication service.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the first operation took place in May near Hamele village, resulting in the discovery of 600 kg of unregistered pesticides, hidden within fifty cartons, and valued at two million CFA francs. In June, a second team intercepted a truck in the same area carrying 1,700 25kg bags of fertilizer, totaling 42.5 tonnes, along with 69 additional cartons of unregistered pesticides (690 kg). This second interception was valued at nearly 20 million CFA francs.

The successful seizures were conducted by the Ouessa Territorial Gendarmerie Brigade, located near the Ivory Coast border, based on tips from local residents. The gendarmerie noted that the sale of these unauthorized products, which bypass all existing legal frameworks, significantly harms the national economy.

The gendarmerie commended the effective collaboration with the local populace and urged continued vigilance during this winter period. They encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities or offenders through the available toll-free numbers: 10 10, 16, and 17.