Freetown, Sierra Leone – Authorities in Sierra Leone have scored a big win against drug trafficking, with the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) securing 52 convictions across the nation.
The push focuses on breaking up crime networks and stopping Kush, a harmful synthetic drug affecting many young people.
Official data from January 27, 2026, shows the Western Area with the most cases at 36 convictions. Kenema and Port Loko each had six, while Bo had four. Another 18 cases are still in the High Court, showing the effort continues. Courts have given tough sentences, up to 40 years for big Kush dealers, to send a strong message.
The operations seized hundreds of Kush packets, thousands of Tramadol pills, cocaine, and cannabis. Actions covered Freetown and areas like Kenema, Port Loko, Bo, Makeni, Mile 91, and borders such as Lungi. Some offenders got combined sentences for multiple crimes, hitting repeat players hard.
A TOCU official said drug trafficking is now seen as a major security risk, not a small issue. This drive supports the government’s goal to protect youth from drugs, smash cross-border crimes, and strengthen Sierra Leone’s global anti-crime role.
