Operation Shark: Cape Verde prosecutors seek detention of 20 suspects
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Expresso das Ilhas
Cape Verdean prosecutors are seeking pre-trial detention for the 20 people arrested in Operation Shark, suspected in particular of drug trafficking and money laundering. Judicial hearings took place over three days in Praia, according to Inforpress as cited by Expresso das Ilhas.
Cape Verdean prosecutors have requested the pre-trial detention of the 20 people arrested as part of Operation Shark, an investigation into suspected drug trafficking and money laundering. The suspects remain divided between National Police stations and the Judicial Police premises in Praia, pending the judge's decision, reports the Inforpress news agency.
The judicial hearings lasted three days and involved the 20 suspects and their lawyers. A member of the defence highlighted the complexity of the case, linked to the number of people arrested and the diversity of the arguments presented. The suspects, aged between 20 and 60, are being prosecuted on suspicion of high-risk drug trafficking, conversion and concealment of funds, money laundering and criminal association.
Among those arrested are 17 men and three women, including four police officers, five prison guards and a senior public administration official. According to the Judicial Police, the arrests took place in different neighbourhoods of the capital and not in flagrante delicto. Searches led to the seizure of a hunting rifle, a 6.35 mm pistol, ammunition, cannabis, cannabis derivatives, cocaine, two vehicles and electronic equipment intended for forensic examination.
The prosecutor's request comes after the arrest of the 20 suspects, including nine public officials, in Praia, announced on 4 November 2026. The arrests are part of the investigation conducted by Cape Verde's Judicial Police as part of Operation Shark.
