Sierra Leone Diplomatic Vehicle Seized with Suspected Cocaine in Guinea
Sierra Leone has called back its ambassador from Guinea after seven containers suspected of cocaine were discovered in a diplomatic vehicle. The vehicle was seized by Guinea’s officials, leading to arrests. The Sierra Leonean government is investigating the incident, emphasizing accountability for anyone involved in drug trafficking.
Sierra Leone has summoned its ambassador to Guinea following the discovery of seven containers suspected to contain cocaine within a diplomatic vehicle. On Monday, Guinean officials seized the vehicle and arrested those aboard, contemplating that it carried “items that could be cocaine,” as reported by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba.
In light of this serious incident, the government promptly contacted Ambassador Alimamy Bangura, requesting his return to Freetown to provide a proper explanation of the events. Notably, the ambassador was not present in the vehicle and has not been detained, as clarified by the minister.
Minister Kabba remarked, “There is no indication that the representative of the country had a role in this drug trafficking,” and disclosed that nearly $2,000 was recovered alongside the containers, though he did not specify the weight of the suspected narcotics. Both countries are conducting a “thorough investigation” into the matter, with assurances that anyone involved will be held accountable.
He emphasized that whoever violates Sierra Leonean laws and international regulations regarding narcotics trafficking will face legal consequences. Southern Africa serves as a significant route for cocaine trafficking from South America to Europe, a major market for this substance. Locally, there is also narcotic use prevalent within the country.
Last month, Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio declared that drug use is an urgent issue in the nation, largely driven by the addiction to Kush, a mixture of narcotics. Citizens are calling upon government officials to assist in addressing this pressing problem of substance abuse.
The recent seizure of suspected cocaine within a diplomatic vehicle in Guinea has prompted urgent diplomatic action by Sierra Leone. The summoning of the ambassador demonstrates the seriousness with which the government is treating the incident, underscoring a shared commitment to combating drug trafficking in the region. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Sierra Leone in managing narcotic use and trafficking, calling for concerted efforts by authorities to address these critical issues.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
