BISSAU -Malam Bacai Sanha Jr., the offspring of the late Guinea-Bissau President Malam Bacai Sanha, has been handed a sentence exceeding six years by a U.S. court for masterminding a global heroin trafficking scheme. The 52-year-old had intentions of accumulating wealth to support his ambitions of staging a coup in Guinea-Bissau, with plans to institute a narcotics-based regime once he ascended to the presidency.
Sanha Jr.’s actions carry significant weight due to his familial connections to the former presidency, setting him apart from an average drug trafficker. Upon completion of his sentence, the non-U.S. citizen Sanha Jr. may face extradition.
Known as “Bacaizinho” in his homeland of Guinea-Bissau, Sanha Jr. served in several government roles, including as an economic adviser to his father, who led the nation from 2009 until his demise in 2012.
Sanha Jr. has reportedly confessed to his direct role in the unsuccessful coup attempt in February 2022, which was aimed at deposing President Umaro Sissoco Embal and led to the loss of 11 lives, mainly among the security forces. As reported by the German state broadcaster “Deutsche Welle,” Sanha Jr. revealed to U.S. officials that the coup was financed using proceeds from drug trafficking.
Sanha Jr. was arrested in Tanzania a few weeks before his extradition to the United States in August 2022. His trial began shortly thereafter, and in September of the same year, he admitted guilt to conspiracy to import drugs illegally.
Guinea-Bissau has been identified as a significant hub for drug trafficking for a long time, acting as a vital passage for narcotics destined for Europe and the United States. Over a decade ago, both the United States and the United Nations designated it a “narco-state.” Experts highlight the extensive influence of smugglers and drug networks within the country’s government, often funding election campaigns to back politicians who protect their illegal operations.
