The Bouna court of first instance handed down a landmark verdict, sentencing Barry Sadjo, a notorious gang leader, and five of his accomplices to life imprisonment . This criminal network, which terrorized eastern Ivory Coast, has been dismantled, revealing local complicity that has stunned the region.

A reign of terror on the roads of the East

At just 27 years old, Barry Sadjo had been among the country's most wanted criminals since 2023. His modus operandi and that of his gang were extremely violent:

1. Areas of operation: Bounkani and Gontougo regions.
2. Crimes: Armed robberies with Kalashnikovs on highways, murders, theft of property and embezzlement.
3. Audacity: The gang had even distinguished itself by stealing service weapons belonging to the defense and security forces.

Cattle rustling: the grain of sand in the machine

The criminal's arrest stemmed not from a robbery, but from a livestock case in Doropo . Following a tip-off, the gendarmerie discovered stolen animals in an enclosure in Piaye. The landowner immediately reported Barry Sadjo, leading to his arrest.

It was during his interrogation that the investigation took a turn. Whether to lessen his own shady side or as a strategic move, the gang leader dropped the pretense by pointing the finger at his alleged "mastermind".

A prominent figure at the heart of the criminal system

The trial highlighted a collaboration that was as effective as it was unexpected. Sankara Seydou , president of the Doropo cattle park and a respected figure, was identified as the mastermind behind several operations.

The investigation revealed that Barry Sadjo claimed that Sankara Seydou provided logistical support—including weapons—and collected the loot after the attacks. Phone records and evidence of clandestine meetings ultimately confirmed these close ties.

An exemplary verdict

Unable to substantiate these accusations in court, the prominent figure shared the same fate as the robbers. By handing down life sentences to the six defendants, the Ivorian justice system sent a strong message. While this verdict may have calmed the local population, the involvement of a leading local economic figure has left a lasting mark of mistrust within the community.