Sierra Leone has recalled its ambassador from Guinea after a diplomatic vehicle was found to be carrying seven suitcases suspected to contain cocaine. The vehicle, belonging to Sierra Leone’s embassy in Guinea, was impounded by Guinean authorities on Monday, and the occupants were detained on suspicion of drug trafficking.
Sierra Leone’s Foreign Minister, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, confirmed that the incident had led to the urgent recall of Ambassador Alimamy Bangura to Freetown for further investigation. Kabba emphasized that the ambassador was not in the vehicle and was not under arrest, assuring that there was no proof implicating him in the trafficking operation.

In addition to the suitcases, authorities reportedly found $2,000 in cash. While the exact weight of the suspected drugs has not been disclosed, the seizure has prompted a joint investigation between the two West African nations. Kabba reaffirmed that any individuals found responsible would be held fully accountable under both Sierra Leonean and international drug trafficking laws.
Sierra Leone, along with many West African nations, faces significant challenges with drug trafficking, as the region serves as a major transit point for cocaine trafficked from Latin America to Europe. Local drug consumption has also been on the rise, with Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio declaring drug abuse a national emergency in 2024.

This latest development adds further urgency to efforts in combating drug-related issues across the region.