In a decisive demonstration of its continued fight against drug trafficking and organised crime, the Sierra Leone Police and key security partners on Friday carried out the destruction of a large quantity of narcotic drugs valued at over NLe 1.6 million. The exercise took place at the headquarters of the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) in Hastings, Freetown, and was witnessed by security stakeholders and members of the media.
The public destruction of the drugs formed part of ongoing efforts by the security sector to reinforce transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the handling of narcotic substances seized during police operations. Authorities say the exercise also sends a strong message to individuals and networks involved in the illegal drug trade that Sierra Leone remains committed to confronting the growing threat posed by narcotics.
Addressing attendees at the event, the Head of the Transnational Organised Crime Unit, CSP Rev. Michael Laggah, described the exercise as a critical step in the country’s broader strategy to combat drug trafficking and other related crimes. According to him, the burning of the narcotics is not merely symbolic but represents a collective determination by the state to prevent Sierra Leone from becoming a hub for illicit drug activities.
He explained that drug trafficking continues to pose serious social and security concerns, particularly among young people, and therefore requires sustained collaboration between law enforcement agencies, government institutions, and the public.
Representing the Director of Crime Services, ACP Brima Kamara Esq. delivered the keynote address, noting that the exercise was partly intended to respond to persistent public concerns about what happens to narcotics after they are seized during police operations.
He clarified that all the substances destroyed during the event were exhibits from completed legal processes and had received the necessary authorisation from the appropriate authorities before their destruction. According to ACP Kamara, the total street value of the drugs destroyed during the exercise stands at over NLe 1,680,318.
He further explained that the role of the Sierra Leone Police within the criminal justice system extends beyond arrests. It includes the prevention and detection of crimes, thorough investigations, charging suspects, and working closely with prosecutors and other relevant institutions to ensure justice is served.
ACP Kamara also used the opportunity to call on members of the public to play an active role in combating drug-related crimes by providing timely and credible information to law enforcement authorities.
He emphasised that the fight against narcotics cannot be won by security agencies alone and requires strong community participation and cooperation.
The event attracted participation from several security and regulatory institutions, including representatives from the Office of National Security (ONS), the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), all of whom reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration in addressing the drug menace.
Speaking on behalf of the NDLEA, the agency’s Director of Operations, Mr. Ibrahim Kargbo, highlighted government’s increasing attention to the drug problem in the country. He recalled that in 2025, President Julius Maada Bio convened a high-level security engagement that led to the establishment of a special taskforce dedicated to disrupting drug trafficking networks and preventing the inflow of narcotic substances into Sierra Leone.
According to him, the formation of the taskforce marked a significant step in strengthening coordination among law enforcement institutions and improving the country’s capacity to tackle transnational organised crime.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Sierra Leone Police Forensic Analysts, ASP Stevens, provided technical insights into the various types of substances destroyed during the exercise. He explained that the seized exhibits included several forms of cocaine, kush, marshmallow, ecstasy, cannabis sativa, and other chemical substances commonly used in the production of narcotics.
He noted that such substances pose serious health risks and social dangers, particularly when they circulate within communities without control.
The exercise concluded with the symbolic burning of the narcotic exhibits in the presence of security officials and journalists, marking another step in the ongoing efforts by the Sierra Leone Police and its partners to clamp down on drug trafficking and safeguard public safety.
Authorities say the operation reflects the country’s continued commitment to enforcing drug control laws while promoting transparency in the handling and disposal of seized narcotics.