Bénin has embarked on a significant overhaul of its intelligence framework, establishing the new Direction générale des services (Dgs), which is set to take over from the Direction des services de liaison et de documentation (Dsld).

This extensive restructuring comes at a critical time, as the West African sub-region grapples with escalating terrorist threats and persistent transnational crime. The primary objective, as confirmed by various reports, is to equip Bénin with a more advanced and effective intelligence service. The Dgs will be responsible for the collection, in-depth analysis, and strategic utilization of critical intelligence. Furthermore, it is mandated to bolster threat prevention capabilities and enhance collaboration with partner agencies.

Continuity in leadership for Bénin’s intelligence

Captain Orphée Hounkanrin, who previously led the Dsld, has been confirmed to head the newly formed Dgs. While the specific achievements of the Dsld largely remain undisclosed to the public due to national security protocols, the decision to retain its former director at the helm of the new Dgs strongly indicates the authorities’ satisfaction with his previous performance. By reaffirming their confidence in Captain Orphée Hounkanrin, Bénin’s leadership appears to acknowledge his proven expertise and invaluable contributions to strengthening the nation’s intelligence apparatus amidst a particularly demanding security landscape across West Africa.