US Africa Command head Dagvin Anderson warned lawmakers about Mexican cartel involvement in drug production across Africa, including South Africa, linking it to terrorism risks. Recent arrests and lab discoveries in multiple countries add to the concerns.
General Dagvin Anderson told the US Senate Armed Services Committee earlier this month that cartel members have been found at drug laboratories in Africa. He noted that 11 of 12 labs tipped off by the US over 18 to 24 months had Mexican cartel members on site, including the largest one disrupted in South Africa.
Anderson said the situation risks “a rupture” without coordinated action. “We are watching this develop, and it’s of concern as this fuels both the terrorists and the cartels,” he stated. Drugs produced in Africa are destined for the Middle East, Europe and the US.
South African police have identified four cases with alleged Mexican links since 2024. These include a R2-billion lab in Limpopo uncovered in July 2024 and a R1-billion facility in Swartruggens discovered in May 2026. Similar operations led to arrests in Mozambique in April 2026 and Nigeria on 20 May 2026.
Anderson also highlighted a nearly sixfold increase in cocaine flowing from the Americas through Africa to Europe since 2024. He described a symbiotic relationship where profits support both cartels and terrorist groups.
