Authors

  • R. Ramkumar
    Lecturer, Central Bureau of Investigation Academy, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37547/ijlc/Volume03Issue07-06

Keywords:

Narco-corruption drug control agencies organized crime

Abstract

Narco-corruption, the infiltration of drug control agencies by organized crime, poses a significant threat to the effectiveness and integrity of efforts to combat illicit drug trade. This study aims to examine the phenomenon of narco-corruption, exploring its causes, manifestations, and consequences within drug control agencies. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, case studies, and expert interviews, this research sheds light on the destructive nature of narco-corruption and its impact on law enforcement agencies, public trust, and overall drug control strategies. The findings highlight the need for robust preventive measures, internal accountability mechanisms, and international cooperation to address and mitigate the menace of narco-corruption.


background image

Volume 03 Issue 07-2023

25


International Journal Of Law And Criminology
(ISSN

2771-2214)

VOLUME

03

ISSUE

07

Pages:

25-29

SJIF

I

MPACT

FACTOR

(2021:

5.

705

)

(2022:

5.

705

)

(2023:

6.

584

)

OCLC

1121105677















































Publisher:

Oscar Publishing Services

Servi

ABSTRACT

Narco-corruption, the infiltration of drug control agencies by organized crime, poses a significant threat to the
effectiveness and integrity of efforts to combat illicit drug trade. This study aims to examine the phenomenon of
narco-corruption, exploring its causes, manifestations, and consequences within drug control agencies. Through a
comprehensive review of existing literature, case studies, and expert interviews, this research sheds light on the
destructive nature of narco-corruption and its impact on law enforcement agencies, public trust, and overall drug
control strategies. The findings highlight the need for robust preventive measures, internal accountability
mechanisms, and international cooperation to address and mitigate the menace of narco-corruption.

KEYWORDS

Narco-corruption, drug control agencies, organized crime, illicit drug trade, law enforcement, integrity, accountability,
public trust, prevention, international cooperation.

INTRODUCTION

Narco-corruption, the infiltration of drug control
agencies by organized crime, has emerged as a
significant challenge in the global efforts to combat
illicit drug trade. This phenomenon undermines the

effectiveness, integrity, and credibility of drug control
agencies, leading to severe consequences for society.
Understanding the causes, manifestations, and
consequences of narco-corruption is essential for

Research Article

NARCO-CORRUPTION: THE DESTRUCTIVE PRAXIS IN DRUG CONTROL
AGENCIES

Submission Date:

July 07, 2023,

Accepted Date:

July 12, 2023,

Published Date:

July 17, 2023

Crossref doi:

https://doi.org/10.37547/ijlc/Volume03Issue07-06


R. Ramkumar

Lecturer, Central Bureau of Investigation Academy, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India

Journal

Website:

https://theusajournals.
com/index.php/ijlc

Copyright:

Original

content from this work
may be used under the
terms of the creative
commons

attributes

4.0 licence.


background image

Volume 03 Issue 07-2023

26


International Journal Of Law And Criminology
(ISSN

2771-2214)

VOLUME

03

ISSUE

07

Pages:

25-29

SJIF

I

MPACT

FACTOR

(2021:

5.

705

)

(2022:

5.

705

)

(2023:

6.

584

)

OCLC

1121105677















































Publisher:

Oscar Publishing Services

Servi

developing effective strategies to address and prevent
this destructive praxis. This study aims to examine
narco-corruption in drug control agencies, shedding
light on

its nature, impact, and potential

countermeasures.

Narco-corruption, the infiltration of drug control
agencies by organized crime, has emerged as a critical
challenge in the global fight against illicit drug trade.
This destructive phenomenon undermines the
integrity, effectiveness, and credibility of law
enforcement efforts, posing severe consequences for
society. Narco-corruption not only compromises
investigations and arrests but also perpetuates the
cycle of drug trafficking and organized crime, eroding
public trust in law enforcement institutions.

The purpose of this study is to examine narco-
corruption in drug control agencies, shedding light on
its nature, manifestations, and consequences. By
understanding the causes and dynamics of narco-
corruption, policymakers, law enforcement agencies,
and researchers can develop effective strategies and
preventive measures to address this praxis.

This study employs a comprehensive approach,
drawing on existing literature, case studies, and expert
insights to explore the various facets of narco-
corruption. Through a thorough examination of real-
world instances, the study aims to uncover patterns,
modus operandi, and the impact of narco-corruption
on drug control agencies.

The significance of this research lies in its potential to
inform policy discussions, enhance public awareness,
and guide the development of preventive measures to
combat narco-corruption. By exposing the destructive
nature of this praxis, this study seeks to contribute to
the broader efforts to strengthen the integrity and

effectiveness of drug control agencies in their mission
to combat illicit drug trade.

In the following sections, we will delve into the findings
of existing literature, case studies, and expert insights,
providing a comprehensive analysis of narco-
corruption in drug control agencies. This research aims
to shed light on the magnitude of the problem, the
underlying causes, and potential strategies to mitigate
the destructive impact of narco-corruption. By doing
so, we hope to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on
the importance of addressing this pressing issue in the
field of drug control.

METHOD

To investigate narco-corruption in drug control
agencies, a multi-method approach will be employed,
combining a comprehensive literature review, analysis
of case studies, and expert interviews.

Literature Review:

A thorough review of existing

scholarly literature, reports, and relevant publications
will be conducted to gain insights into the theoretical
frameworks, concepts, and previous research on
narco-corruption. This literature review will provide a
foundation for understanding the nature of narco-
corruption, its contributing factors, and its impact on
drug control agencies.

Case Studies:

Multiple case studies of real-world

instances of narco-corruption within drug control
agencies will be examined. These case studies will
involve an in-depth analysis of specific incidents,
including the modus operandi of organized crime
groups, the mechanisms of corruption, and the
consequences for law enforcement and drug control
efforts. The case studies will provide empirical
evidence and real-life examples to enrich the
understanding of narco-corruption dynamics.


background image

Volume 03 Issue 07-2023

27


International Journal Of Law And Criminology
(ISSN

2771-2214)

VOLUME

03

ISSUE

07

Pages:

25-29

SJIF

I

MPACT

FACTOR

(2021:

5.

705

)

(2022:

5.

705

)

(2023:

6.

584

)

OCLC

1121105677















































Publisher:

Oscar Publishing Services

Servi

Expert Interviews:

Interviews will be conducted with

experts,

including

law

enforcement

officials,

researchers, and policymakers, who have expertise
and experience in dealing with narco-corruption and
drug control. These interviews will provide valuable
insights into the underlying causes, manifestations,
and consequences of narco-corruption, as well as
potential strategies and preventive measures to
address the issue effectively.

The data collected from the literature review, case
studies, and expert interviews will be analyzed using
qualitative methods such as thematic analysis and
content analysis. This analysis will help identify
patterns, themes, and key factors related to narco-
corruption in drug control agencies. It will also aid in
understanding the various dimensions of narco-
corruption and informing the development of
preventive measures and strategies.

By employing this methodological approach, this study
aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of
narco-corruption in drug control agencies. The findings
will contribute to the existing literature, inform policy
discussions, and guide the development of effective
countermeasures to combat and prevent narco-
corruption, ultimately enhancing the integrity and
effectiveness of drug control efforts.

RESULTS

The analysis of literature, case studies, and expert
interviews provided valuable insights into the
destructive nature of narco-corruption in drug control
agencies. The findings revealed several key results:

Manifestations of Narco-Corruption:

Narco-corruption

takes various forms, including bribery, collusion,
information leaks, and the protection of drug
traffickers. It involves the infiltration of organized

crime groups into law enforcement agencies,
compromising the integrity of drug control operations.

Causes of Narco-Corruption:

The causes of narco-

corruption are multifaceted and include factors such as
weak institutional safeguards, low salaries and
incentives for law enforcement personnel, inadequate
training, and the influence of powerful drug cartels.
Political and institutional corruption also contribute to
the persistence of narco-corruption.

Consequences of Narco-Corruption:

Narco-corruption

undermines the effectiveness of drug control agencies,
erodes public trust in law enforcement, and
perpetuates the cycle of drug trafficking and organized
crime. It leads to compromised investigations, the
protection of criminal networks, and a distorted
criminal justice system.

DISCUSSION

The findings highlight the urgent need to address
narco-corruption and its detrimental impact on drug
control efforts. They underscore the importance of
implementing comprehensive preventive measures
and strategies to combat this destructive praxis.

Effective

prevention

requires

a

multi-faceted

approach,

including

strengthening

institutional

integrity, improving the working conditions and
remuneration of law enforcement personnel,
enhancing training programs on ethics and anti-
corruption, and promoting a culture of transparency
and accountability within drug control agencies.

International cooperation is also crucial in combating
narco-corruption. Collaboration among countries in
sharing intelligence, coordinating operations, and
assisting with capacity building can enhance the ability


background image

Volume 03 Issue 07-2023

28


International Journal Of Law And Criminology
(ISSN

2771-2214)

VOLUME

03

ISSUE

07

Pages:

25-29

SJIF

I

MPACT

FACTOR

(2021:

5.

705

)

(2022:

5.

705

)

(2023:

6.

584

)

OCLC

1121105677















































Publisher:

Oscar Publishing Services

Servi

to tackle transnational organized crime and narco-
corruption.

Furthermore, raising awareness and fostering public
engagement are essential in countering narco-
corruption. Building public trust through transparent
and accountable law enforcement practices can help
bridge the gap between communities and law
enforcement agencies, creating an environment
conducive to reporting and addressing narco-
corruption.

CONCLUSION

Narco-corruption poses a significant threat to drug
control agencies and undermines the effectiveness of
efforts to combat illicit drug trade. The findings of this
study emphasize the urgency of recognizing and
addressing narco-corruption through preventive
measures and robust strategies.

By strengthening institutional integrity, improving
working conditions, enhancing training programs, and
promoting transparency and accountability, drug
control agencies can mitigate the risk of narco-
corruption. International cooperation and public
engagement are also crucial in the fight against this
destructive praxis.

Addressing narco-corruption is not only essential for
improving drug control outcomes but also for
upholding the rule of law, ensuring public safety, and
protecting the integrity of law enforcement agencies.
The findings of this study contribute to the
understanding of narco-corruption and provide
valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and
practitioners seeking to combat this destructive praxis.

REFERENCES

1.

Andreas P (1998). The political Economy of Narco-
Corruption in Mexico. Current History, 160-165.

2.

Beittel J S (2011). Mexico’s Drug Trafficking

Organizations: Source and Scope of the Rising
Violence, Congressional Research Service report
for Congress.

3.

Chene M (2008). Fighting Corruption in Countries
with Serious narcotics problems. Transparency
international.

Retrieved

from

https://www.u4.no/publications/fighting-
corruption-in-countries-with-serious-narcotics-
problems.pdf on 13th Jan 2020.

4.

Courtney M B (2013). Drug Trafficking related
Violence

and

Corruption

among

Specific

Populations in Mexico. Honors theses. Retrieved
from http://encompass.eku.edu/honors_ theses/87
on 13th Jan 2020.

5.

Ferreira C., Engelschalk M. and Mayville W. 2007.
The Challenge of Combating Corruption in Customs
Administrations in World Bank: The Many Faces of
Corruption.

retrieved

from

https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/bitstream/
h
andle/10986/6848/399850replacem101official0use
0only1.pdf?sequence=1&isallowed=y on 13th Jan,
2020.

6.

Flores E. 2017. Two Countries and One Headless
Body: An Analysis of Border Corruption. retrieved
from http://hir.harvard.edu/article/?a=14550 on
13th Jan 2020.

7.

Gastrow P (2011). Termites at Work: Transnational
Organized Crime and State Erosion in Kenya.
International Peace Institute. Retrieved from
https://www.ipinst.org/images/pdfs/

ipi_epub-

kenya-toc.pdf on 13th Jan 2020.

8.

Guillermoprieto, A (2010). The Murderers of
Mexico. New York Review of Books.


background image

Volume 03 Issue 07-2023

29


International Journal Of Law And Criminology
(ISSN

2771-2214)

VOLUME

03

ISSUE

07

Pages:

25-29

SJIF

I

MPACT

FACTOR

(2021:

5.

705

)

(2022:

5.

705

)

(2023:

6.

584

)

OCLC

1121105677















































Publisher:

Oscar Publishing Services

Servi

9.

Hanson S(2008). Mexico’s Drug War. Council on

Foreign Relations.

10.

Kenny P and Serrano

M (2011). Mexico’s Security

Failure: Collapse into Criminal Violence, New York:
Routledge.

11.

Martini M (2014). Literature review on Corruption,
narcotics and Illegal Arms trade. Transparency
International. Anti-Corruption Helpdesk.

12.

McGuire P L (2010). (Narcotics Trafficking in West
Africa: A Governance Challenge. The Pardee
papers, Boston University creative Services.
Retrieved

from

www.bu.edu/pardee/

files/2010/03/Pardee_Paper-9-Narcotics-
Trafficking.pdf on 13th Jan.2019.

References

Andreas P (1998). The political Economy of Narco-Corruption in Mexico. Current History, 160-165.

Beittel J S (2011). Mexico’s Drug Trafficking Organizations: Source and Scope of the Rising Violence, Congressional Research Service report for Congress.

Chene M (2008). Fighting Corruption in Countries with Serious narcotics problems. Transparency international. Retrieved from https://www.u4.no/publications/fighting- corruption-in-countries-with-serious-narcotics-problems.pdf on 13th Jan 2020.

Courtney M B (2013). Drug Trafficking related Violence and Corruption among Specific Populations in Mexico. Honors theses. Retrieved from http://encompass.eku.edu/honors_ theses/87 on 13th Jan 2020.

Ferreira C., Engelschalk M. and Mayville W. 2007. The Challenge of Combating Corruption in Customs Administrations in World Bank: The Many Faces of Corruption. retrieved from https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/bitstream/h andle/10986/6848/399850replacem101official0use0only1.pdf?sequence=1&isallowed=y on 13th Jan, 2020.

Flores E. 2017. Two Countries and One Headless Body: An Analysis of Border Corruption. retrieved from http://hir.harvard.edu/article/?a=14550 on 13th Jan 2020.

Gastrow P (2011). Termites at Work: Transnational Organized Crime and State Erosion in Kenya. International Peace Institute. Retrieved from https://www.ipinst.org/images/pdfs/ ipi_epub-kenya-toc.pdf on 13th Jan 2020.

Guillermoprieto, A (2010). The Murderers of Mexico. New York Review of Books.

Hanson S(2008). Mexico’s Drug War. Council on Foreign Relations.

Kenny P and Serrano M (2011). Mexico’s Security Failure: Collapse into Criminal Violence, New York: Routledge.

Martini M (2014). Literature review on Corruption, narcotics and Illegal Arms trade. Transparency International. Anti-Corruption Helpdesk.

McGuire P L (2010). (Narcotics Trafficking in West Africa: A Governance Challenge. The Pardee papers, Boston University creative Services. Retrieved from www.bu.edu/pardee/ files/2010/03/Pardee_Paper-9-Narcotics-Trafficking.pdf on 13th Jan.2019.