Benguma, Western Area Rural District – A joint operation by the National Taskforce for Drug and Substance Abuse has led to several arrests following a major raid on a suspected drug hub in Benguma.
The operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 118 kilograms of cannabis, commonly known as Jamba, signaling what authorities describe as a significant breakthrough in efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks.
Officials say the arrests form part of an ongoing national crackdown targeting individuals involved in the production, trafficking, and sale of illegal substances.
The Joint Special Unit, which includes personnel from the Sierra Leone Police, the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and the National Public Health Agency, coordinated the operation.
The Taskforce has intensified actions in recent weeks, including raids in Calaba Town, Waterloo, and Allen Town, which have also led to arrests and confiscation of sizeable quantities of narcotics.
Authorities emphasize that the crackdown is not only focused on Kush, the synthetic drug currently fueling nationwide public health concerns, but also on cannabis, Tramadol, Diazepam, and other controlled substances circulating in communities.
A senior security official described the Benguma arrests as “a clear message to traffickers and dealers that law enforcement pressure is increasing, and impunity is shrinking.”
The Taskforce says these operations will continue alongside community sensitization and rehabilitation initiatives, aimed at reducing both supply and demand.
Officials reaffirmed that the fight against drug abuse remains a national priority affecting public health, youth development, and community safety.
