Prigozhin's Son Builds Empire With Remnants of Wagner Group, Profiting From 'Poor Man's Cocaine'

In the remote jungles of Central Africa, a new drug empire is quietly expanding under the leadership of Pavel Prigozhin, the son of the late Wagner Group founder Yevgeny Prigozhin. Operating from the remnants of the Russian mercenary group, Pavel and hundreds of Wagner fighters have established control over lucrative illicit trade routes.

Their primary focus is the cross-border trafficking of tramadol, a potent opioid often referred to as the "poor man's cocaine." This trade generates substantial revenue, fueling the burgeoning criminal enterprise. The group's influence extends beyond drugs, as they also manage local gold mines, further diversifying their sources of income.

This expansion marks a significant resurgence for Wagner-affiliated operations following the death of its founder. Pavel Prigozhin's efforts appear aimed at rebuilding influence and consolidating power in the region, leveraging the group's established network and resources.