By: Audrey Raymonda John
The Sierra Leone Police’s Transitional Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) recently conducted a public incineration of 472 cartons of tramadol and various other illicit pharmaceutical substances at their headquarters. This significant action marks a key milestone in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking.
Detective Chief Superintendent of Police (D/CSP) Mohamed Krugba Alieu, known as MK Alieu, confirmed that this incineration represents the first of its kind in 2025. He emphasised the importance of destroying these substances to prevent them from re-entering society.
“We are here today to witness the first destruction of illicit drugs and narcotics this year,” MK Alieu stated. He underscored that the dangers posed by narcotics far outweigh any perceived economic benefits, reiterating TOCU’s commitment to pursuing, apprehending, and prosecuting those involved in the drug trade.
Alieu also urged the community to avoid both the use and sale of illicit drugs, stressing the vital role public participation plays in addressing the challenges associated with drug abuse.
Mr. Prince Bull Luseni, Deputy Executive Director of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), described the incineration as a crucial step in combating narcotics trafficking. He highlighted that the fight against drugs is a collective responsibility, calling for active involvement from all citizens. The destruction of the drugs followed directives from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), dated February 26, 2025, and a court order from the High Court, issued on March 3, 2025, presided over by Justice Momoh Jah Stevens.
The destroyed items included:
Fifty-two cartons of tramadol, weighing 1,200 kilograms, with an estimated street value of SLL 780,000 (CR/NO. 37/2025).
Two brown cartons of tramadol, weighing 102 kilograms, valued at SLL 30,000 (CR/NO. 37/2025).
Thirty-two cartons of assorted pharmaceutical drugs (CR/NO. 378/2024).
Two hundred and fifty vials of Afterment Injection, valued at SLL 1,360,000 (CR/NO. 438/2024).
Two hundred and thirty-six gross of tramadol, valued at SLL 2,360,000 (CR/NO. 447/2024).
Precursor chemical exhibits linked to the Allen Town Factory case, which were retained for safety reasons and are under TOCU custody pending a management decision (CR/NO. 482/2024).
Exhibits submitted to Court No. 2, Pademba Road, Freetown, including thirty-three packets of tramadol and cash totalling SLL 83,013 (New Leones), which were not destroyed (CR/NO. 502/2024).
This incineration serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by the illicit drug trade and highlights the continued efforts of law enforcement to safeguard public health and safety.
