On Tuesday, 11 August 2026, the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) carried out a significant destruction exercise at its headquarters in Hastings, Freetown, targeting seized narcotic and pharmaceutical drugs.
The event was attended by a broad coalition of stakeholders, including representatives from the Sierra Leone Police, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Office of National Security (ONS), the Judiciary, diplomatic missions, as well as religious and community leaders, and media professionals.
CSP Rev. Michael Lagga, Head of TOCU, highlighted that this destruction event was not merely a procedural act but a clear demonstration of the Governmentโs commitment to keeping communities safe from illicit drugs. He underscored how the drugs were seized through thorough investigations and coordinated efforts among agencies.
โDrug trafficking poses a serious threat to our national security, fuelling organized crime, corruption, and violence, and harming our youth. Todayโs action reinforces our dedication to dismantling these criminal networks,โ stated CSP Rev. Lagga.
Mr. Lagga, representing the ONS, reiterated the Governmentโs resolve to fight organized crime through improved cooperation, intelligence sharing, and coordinated efforts. He praised the collaborative work of security agencies and urged ongoing partnerships with government bodies, communities, international allies, and the media to combat drug trafficking effectively.
Mr. Andrew J. Kaikai, Director of the NDLEA, reaffirmed the agencyโs steadfast commitment to countering drug trafficking and safeguarding the public against the dangers of illicit substances. He emphasized that the destruction of these drugs reflects the Governmentโs determination to keep illegal drugs off the streets and lauded the strong cooperation between security agencies, calling for sustained endeavors to disrupt criminal organizations involved in the drug trade.
In total, 376 cartons of Tramadol and 20 cartons of Poska medicines were seized through coordinated law enforcement operations. After completing legal requirements and securing court approval, the seized drugs were cleared for destruction.
This exercise delivered a powerful message about Sierra Leoneโs resolve to combat drug trafficking and organized crime, concluding with the destruction of the confiscated substances a strong symbol of the Governmentโs unwavering stand against illicit drugs and the criminal activities tied to their distribution.