Post a comment 
The Parliamentary Leader of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), Hon. Abdul Kargbo, has expressed concern over recent discussions within the European Parliament regarding possible sanctions and the suspension of development assistance to Sierra Leone amid allegations linking the country to international drug trafficking networks.
In a statement issued following reports that European Union lawmakers had called on the European Commission to take stronger action against Sierra Leone, Hon. Kargbo said the developments should be a matter of serious concern for all Sierra Leoneans.
According to reports referenced by the APC Parliamentary Leader, some members of the European Parliament have argued that Sierra Leone is increasingly being viewed as a key transit point for cocaine destined for Europe and as a refuge for European Union citizens seeking to evade prosecution in their home countries.
Reacting to the reports, Hon. Kargbo stated that the European Parliament is now openly discussing sanctions and the possible suspension of development assistance to Sierra Leone due to growing concerns about drug trafficking and what he described as the refusal to extradite individuals linked to transnational organised crime.
“This is a serious warning that should concern every patriotic Sierra Leonean,” Hon. Kargbo said.
The APC Parliamentary Leader warned that Sierra Leone could face significant consequences if it develops an international reputation as a safe haven for drug traffickers and individuals connected to criminal networks.
“Our country cannot afford to gain an international reputation as a safe haven for drug traffickers while those connected to powerful networks enjoy protection,” he stated.
Hon. Kargbo further cautioned that such perceptions could negatively affect Sierra Leone’s economy, foreign relations, investor confidence and national security.
“The consequences will affect our economy, foreign relations, investor confidence and national security,” he said.
He also called for a credible and impartial approach to tackling drug-related crimes, stressing that efforts to combat narcotics trafficking should be free from political interference.
“The fight against drugs must be credible, impartial and free from political interference if Sierra Leone is to maintain its standing in the international community,” Hon. Kargbo added.
The statement comes amid heightened international scrutiny over drug trafficking activities in West Africa, a region that has long been identified by international agencies as a transit corridor for narcotics destined for European markets.
At the time of reporting, the Government of Sierra Leone had not publicly responded to Hon. Kargbo’s remarks regarding the reported discussions within the European Parliament.
