Senegalese National Remanded Over Alleged Cocaine Trafficking at Lungi Airport

Senegalese National Remanded Over Alleged Cocaine Trafficking at Lungi Airport

Fatou Zingie Gueya, a 40-year-old Senegalese national, was remanded in custody by Justice Mark Ngagba at High Court No. 8 on Tuesday. The defendant faces multiple charges following the discovery of 1.8 kilograms of cocaine at Freetown International Airport.

Gueya has been charged with four counts of unlawful possession of prohibited drugs, a violation of Section 8(a) of the National Drugs Control Act, 2008. The indictment alleges she was in possession of approximately 1.8 kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride, divided into two parcels, without legal authorization.

Police reports indicate that the seizure occurred on April 3, 2026, at the Lungi airport in Port Loko District. Authorities allege the defendant transported the illicit substance from a local hotel to the airport terminal with the intent to export the drugs from Sierra Leone.

The court heard that Gueya arrived in the country via Air Sénégal, transiting through The Gambia. She was intercepted at a security screening point by Detective Inspector Hindolo Bundu Kamanda after a search of her luggage revealed a white powdery substance, later confirmed to be cocaine.

Entering her plea through a French interpreter, Gueya pleaded not guilty to all counts. Defense counsel M.K. Dauda is representing the accused.

Prosecutor N. Jalloh requested a continuance to secure witness testimony for the trial. 

Justice Ngagba granted the application and adjourned the matter until June 17, 2026.