Sierra Leone Recalls Ambassador Following Embassy Vehicle Drug Scandal

January 18, 2025

Sierra Leone has recalled its ambassador to Guinea after authorities in Conakry discovered seven suitcases containing suspected cocaine in an embassy vehicle.

Guinean officials detained the vehicle’s occupants on Monday after finding what appeared to be illicit substances. Sierra Leone’s Foreign Minister, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, confirmed the incident, describing it as a "serious development."

In response, Ambassador Alimamy Bangura has been summoned back to Freetown to provide a detailed explanation. The minister clarified that the ambassador was not present during the incident and is not under arrest.

Authorities also seized approximately $2,000 in cash from the vehicle. However, the exact quantity of the suspected drugs remains undisclosed.

Both countries are conducting a joint investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the case. The minister assured that those involved would face legal consequences if found guilty of drug trafficking violations.

West Africa remains a key transit point for cocaine smuggled from Latin America to Europe. However, some of the drugs are also consumed locally, exacerbating addiction issues in the region.

In Sierra Leone, drug abuse has been a growing concern. President Julius Maada Bio declared a national emergency in April last year to address the rise in substance abuse, particularly the consumption of "Kush," a potent and dangerous drug mixture.

Local communities have urged the government to intensify efforts to combat drug-related challenges and provide support for affected individuals.