Freetown, Hastings, 12 November 2025 – The Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) has destroyed a large quantity of seized illicit drugs during a formal disposal exercise held at its headquarters in Hastings.
The destruction exercise, conducted in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Pharmacy Board, the Judiciary, and the Office of National Security (ONS), aimed to send a strong warning to drug traffickers and peddlers operating within the country.
Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Michael Laggah, Head of TOCU, informed dignitaries and observers that the destroyed consignments were intercepted through the diligent efforts of TOCU personnel and other law enforcement agencies. The destroyed items included cocaine, Kush, Cannabis Sativa, Tramadol 500 mg, Kush manufacturing chemicals, expired drugs, and other related narcotic substances. He reaffirmed the Unit’s commitment to the government’s directive to pursue and dismantle all networks engaged in illegal drug trafficking.
CSP Laggah commended the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr William Fayia Sellu, for his continuous support in strengthening TOCU’s operations against drug-related crimes. He emphasised that collaboration among institutions remains essential in the fight against narcotics, noting that no single agency can win this battle alone and that collaboration is the key to success.
Representing the IGP, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Dr Martin Senessie, Director of Operations, reiterated the Sierra Leone Police’s commitment to supporting the NDLEA and other security partners in eradicating illicit drugs nationwide. He assured that the police leadership is fully backing TOCU’s efforts to track down criminals involved in the illegal drug trade and to ensure that national borders remain secure.
Mr Andrew Jayah KaiKai, Executive Director of the NDLEA, described the event as a symbolic yet powerful demonstration of the nation’s collective determination to combat narcotic substances. He explained that the drugs being destroyed could have caused immense harm to society had they found their way into communities. He further stressed that the campaign against illicit drugs would continue relentlessly to safeguard public health, safety, and the rule of law.
Mr KaiKai expressed gratitude to the Sierra Leone Police for their logistical and personnel support, which, he noted, has significantly enhanced NDLEA operations. Describing the campaign as a battle for the soul of the nation, he called on all stakeholders — including the Inter-Religious Council, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), and community leaders — to unite in tackling the drug menace. He reminded citizens that they can report drug-related activities through the national emergency hotline 117, encouraging every patriotic Sierra Leonean to play an active role in the fight.
Representing the Government of Sierra Leone, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Mr David Fortune, described the increasing flow of illegal drugs as a serious national concern. He noted that His Excellency President, Dr Julius Maada Bio, remains deeply engaged in addressing the issue, as demonstrated by his visits to drug rehabilitation centres and his firm stance against traffickers.
Mr Fortune warned that anyone caught dealing in illicit drugs would face the full force of the law. He urged all law enforcement bodies to expedite investigations and prosecutions of arrested suspects to ensure swift justice. He also appealed for continued vigilance and collaboration among communities, security agencies, and policymakers.
The event concluded with government officials, journalists, and stakeholders witnessing the symbolic destruction of the drugs, which were dumped into a deep pit and set ablaze at the TOCU headquarters.
SLP Media Team
