Sierra Leone Recalls Ambassador After Cocaine Discovery in Embassy Vehicle

Sierra Leone has recalled its ambassador to Guinea following the discovery of seven suitcases containing suspected cocaine in an embassy vehicle. Guinean authorities seized the vehicle on Monday and detained its occupants for questioning regarding their possession of the substances.

Sierra Leone's Foreign Minister, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, confirmed the recall of Ambassador Mr. Alimamy Bangura to Freetown for a comprehensive briefing on the incident. The minister emphasized that the ambassador was not in the vehicle at the time and is not under arrest, asserting that there is no evidence linking him directly to the trafficking. Alongside the suitcases, approximately $2,000 in cash was also found, although details regarding the weight of the suspected drugs were not disclosed.

Kabba noted that both countries are engaged in a cooperative investigation, and he vowed that those found guilty of violating drug trafficking laws will face serious legal repercussions. West Africa remains a significant transit route for cocaine moving from Latin America to European markets, while local consumption of various drugs, including a potent substance known as Kush, has been rising.

In light of increasing concerns over drug abuse, which President Julius Maada Bio called a national emergency last year, there are calls from local communities for stronger government action to address drug-related issues.