In a significant effort to rid Sierra Leone of illicit drugs, the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and other law enforcement agencies destroyed over $1 million worth of drugs on Saturday, July 13, 2024.
The destruction of 343 cartons of Diclofenac and Tramadol marked the third of such operation this year, following similar exercises in February and April. The destruction is part of a concerted effort to eliminate the presence of narcotics in the country.
The Deputy Director of the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency, Mr. Ibrahim Kargbo, explained that the Tramadol weighed 4,200 kilograms, while the Diclofenac weighed 6,000 kilograms, making a total weight of 10,200 kilograms. The Tramadol was valued at $700,000, while the Diclofenac was valued at $380,000.
According to Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Lahai, Director of Crime Services, the ultimate goal is to prevent such drugs from entering the country and affecting the future of Sierra Leone’s youth population. “The presence of these drugs poses a bleak future for our young people,” he warned.
The Commissioner urged the public to come forward with any information that may lead to the arrest and prosecution of those involved in the importation, sale, and distribution of illegal drugs.
This latest operation demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies in Sierra Leone to combating drug trafficking and reducing drug-related crime.
The Head of TOCU, CSP Mohamed Kugba Allieu, as well as the Office of the National Security Representative and other stakeholders made meaningful contributions to this initiative.
