His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has firmly rejected attempts to label Sierra Leone a “narco state,” describing the characterization as unfair, misleading, and harmful to the country’s international reputation in Makeni on Tuesday, 30 June 2026.
He reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking and substance abuse through stronger laws, enhanced law enforcement, and international cooperation.
Speaking at the 2026 Presidential Town Hall Meeting held at the University of Makeni (UNIMAK) and organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education under the theme, “Year of Action,” President Bio emphasized that drug trafficking is a transnational crime that demands coordinated global action rather than the stigmatization of individual countries.
Responding to questions from citizens, the President outlined several measures his administration has implemented to strengthen the fight against narcotics. These include tougher anti-drug legislation, enhanced law enforcement capacity, expedited prosecution of drug-related offences, and expanded collaboration with international partners.
President Bio disclosed that these strengthened legal measures have led to more than 120 convictions in drug-related cases. He also announced that the Government has established five rehabilitation centres across the country to provide treatment and recovery services for individuals affected by substance abuse.
Additionally, he revealed that Sierra Leone is working closely with international partners to prevent the importation of high-dose tramadol exceeding 50 milligrams. The Government is also awaiting the findings of a comprehensive assessment of the country’s maritime domain, which is expected to strengthen efforts to intercept illicit drugs entering Sierra Leone through its territorial waters.
The President stressed that while transnational criminal networks continue to exploit international trafficking routes, Sierra Leone should not be unfairly branded a “narco state.” He argued that such narratives overlook the global nature of the illicit drug trade and fail to acknowledge the country’s ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, enhance security, and uphold the rule of law.
He warned that portraying Sierra Leone as a hub for narcotics trafficking could discourage foreign investment, undermine investor confidence, and overshadow the significant progress the country has made in strengthening its institutions and advancing sustainable development.
President Bio further emphasized that the fight against narcotics must be based on shared international responsibility, with countries of origin, transit, and destination working together to dismantle sophisticated cross-border criminal networks.
He also maintained that his Government’s substantial investments in human capital development including education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and social protection must not be undermined by the activities of drug traffickers and organized criminal groups.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting Sierra Leone’s borders and strengthening law enforcement institutions, President Bio pledged that anyone found violating the country’s drug laws would be brought to justice. He also called on citizens to support national efforts to combat substance abuse while urging international partners to deepen cooperation in intelligence sharing, maritime security, and cross-border law enforcement.
The President’s remarks formed part of a wide-ranging dialogue with citizens during the fourth Presidential Town Hall Meeting, which provided an open platform for Sierra Leoneans to engage directly with the Head of State on key national issues, including the economy, constitutional reform, energy, education, healthcare, agriculture, national unity, and governance.