Security Forces Destroy Illegal Drugs Worth Over $1.5 Million in Sierra Leone

The Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) on Tuesday carried out a large-scale drug destruction exercise, destroying illicit substances valued at an estimated $1.5 million.

The exercise, attended by key stakeholders, dignitaries, and media organizations, involved the destruction of cocaine, tramadol, tapentadol, cannabis, expired medications, and other prohibited drugs.

National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Executive Director Andrew Kaikai announced that narcotics worth $1,525,000, including marijuana and cocaine, were destroyed during the exercise.

Kaikai emphasized the importance of the exercise and building public confidence in the justice system. He said collaboration was crucial in the seizure and destruction of illicit substances and expressed gratitude to the Sierra Leone Police and various partners for their unwavering support.

“The fight against drug trafficking cannot be won by law enforcement alone,” Kaikai said. “It requires the assessment, participation of communities, families, educational institutions, religious organizations, civil society, and every responsible citizen.”

Senior Technical Advisor to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Amadu Mannah, reported an increase in recent arrests due to improved coordination within the security sector.

Director of Serious Organised Crime and Counter-Terrorism Coordinator for the Office of National Security (ONS), Sahr M.L. Moseray addressed ongoing efforts to intercept containers suspected of carrying drugs, noting that measures were being implemented to prevent the movement of these containers. He also condemned institutions involved in drug trafficking.

However, the exercise faced disruption when individuals tried to frustrate the process by breaking two coffins to retrieve drugs during the burning. Police officers were working on strategic security measures to prevent such incidents.

Authorities said the destruction forms part of ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse, illegal trafficking, and to protect public health and safety across the country.