By Fatrima Kpaka
Freetown, August 11, 2026: The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has carried out a public destruction exercise of seized narcotic and pharmaceutical drugs, underscoring the Government’s commitment to combating organised crime and drug trafficking.
The operation, led by the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) at its Hastings headquarters, was witnessed by representatives from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Office of National Security (ONS), the Judiciary, diplomatic missions, religious leaders, community stakeholders and the media.
TOCU Head, CSP Rev. Michael Lagga, described the exercise as a demonstration of transparency and a firm stance against illicit drugs infiltrating communities. “Drug trafficking remains a grave threat to our national security. It fuels organised crime, corruption and violence, while undermining the well‑being of our young people,” he said.
The NDLEA Director, Andrew J. Kaikai, disclosed that 376 cartons of Tramadol and 20 cartons of Poska medicines, contained in two containers, were seized through coordinated intelligence‑led operations. Following court approval, the drugs were authorised for destruction.
Kaikai commended the collaboration among security agencies and international partners, stressing that the destruction sent a strong message of Sierra Leone’s determination to disrupt criminal networks. He urged sustained cooperation among government institutions, communities and the media in the fight against drug trafficking.
The ceremony culminated in the burning of the confiscated substances, symbolising the Government’s uncompromising stance against illicit drugs and the criminal enterprises associated with their distribution.