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The Sierra Leone Police Transitional Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) conducted a public incineration of 472 cartons of tramadol and various illicit pharmaceutical substances at their headquarters, marking the first drug incineration of 2025.
The event highlights the ongoing fight against drug trafficking in the country.
Among the items destroyed were over 1,200 kilograms of tramadol, assorted pharmaceutical drugs, and precursor chemicals linked to an ongoing investigation. Detective Chief Superintendent of Police (D/CSP) Mohamed Krugba Alieu emphasized the importance of this destruction in preventing the re-entry of these substances into society, reiterating TOCU’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes.
Mr. Prince Bull Luseni, Deputy Executive Director of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), described the incineration as a crucial step in the collective fight against narcotics trafficking, urging community participation in addressing drug challenges.
The destruction followed directives from the Director of Public Prosecutions and an order from the High Court, underscoring the judiciary’s role in supporting law enforcement efforts. This incineration serves as a reminder of the significant challenges posed by the illicit drug trade in Sierra Leone.
It is concerning to note that the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Sierra Leone have been consistently using open burning as a method to destroy seized illegal drugs. While this may seem like a quick solution, it poses serious risks to public health, the environment, and community safety. Open burning releases toxic chemicals into the air, endangers nearby residents, and contributes to environmental pollution.
There are safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as high-temperature incineration in regulated facilities or chemical neutralization, which could be explored and adopted. As a concerned citizen, I urge the SLP and EPA Sierra Leone to reconsider this practice and prioritize methods that protect both people and the environment. Sustainable and responsible disposal of illegal drugs is not just a matter of enforcement but also a commitment to the well-being of our communities and the preservation of our natural resources.