Authorities Destroy Seized Multi-Million Illicit Drugs
- Sarah Kallay
- 20 minutes ago
- 2 min read
In a major public demonstration of transparency and security enforcement, authorities in Sierra Leone have facilitated the destruction of 396 cartons of illicit pharmaceutical and narcotic drugs worth millions of U.S. dollars.
The public exercise took place on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) headquarters in Hastings, Freetown.
The operation was jointly executed following intelligence-led inter-agency operations involving TOCU, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), the Office of National Security (ONS), the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone, and the National Revenue Authority.
The destroyed contraband—comprising 376 cartons of Tramadol and 20 cartons of Poska medicines—was intercepted across two shipping containers during joint security sweeps at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Freetown. Following full legal review and judicial approval, authorization was granted for the immediate disposal of the seized drugs.
Addressing key stakeholders, diplomatic representatives, community leaders, and media practitioners, Head of TOCU CSP Rev. Michael Lagga underscored the significance of the exercise. “Drug trafficking remains a grave threat to our national security,” CSP Rev. Lagga stated.
“It fuels organised crime, corruption, and violence, while undermining the well-being of our young people. Today’s exercise is a firm demonstration of our commitment to disrupting these criminal networks.”
Director General of the SLPHA, Yankuba Bio, and NDLEA Director Andrew J. Kaikai echoed these sentiments, highlighting heightened surveillance measures across port facilities and reaffirming their agencies’ determination to prevent illegal substances from penetrating local communities.
The ceremony concluded with the total incineration of the confiscated materials, spotlighting the country’s renewed stance on drug trafficking and organized crime.
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