By Sahr Eric George
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – Sierra Leone’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu, has advocated for the establishment of a dedicated fast track court to expedite the handling of drug-related cases in the country.
Addressing members of parliament during a summoned meeting at the House of Representatives in Tower Hill, Freetown, IGP Sellu stressed the urgent need for a specialized court to address the increasing challenges posed by drug trafficking and substance abuse.
“The establishment of a fast track court solely for drug cases is imperative,” urged IGP Sellu.
While acknowledging the diligent efforts of law enforcement agencies in combating drug peddling and substance abuse nationwide, IGP Sellu expressed frustration over the challenges encountered in the judicial process. He lamented that despite arrests and charges being laid against offenders, many accused persons are swiftly released on bail by the magistrate court.
“The battle against drugs transcends law enforcement; it is a collective responsibility,” emphasized IGP Sellu.
IGP Sellu recounted a recent case where a Nigerian national was apprehended in possession of thirty-seven cartons of drugs and counterfeit notes amounting to thirty-four thousand United States dollars ($34,000). He highlighted the delay in receiving examination results from the Bank of Sierra Leone, despite submitting the seized currency for verification.
“We are still awaiting the examination results from the Bank of Sierra Leone regarding the seized $34,000,” stated IGP Sellu.
Furthermore, IGP Sellu revealed that a prominent drug lord operating in the Eastern part of Freetown had been released on bail twice by the magistrate court but remains in police custody pending further investigation.
“Biggitel, a significant drug kingpin, is currently in police custody,” confirmed the police chief.
Highlighting the local production of illicit drugs like kush, IGP Sellu underscored the need for stringent monitoring of imported components used in their manufacture. He called for enhanced cargo inspections at ports to prevent the influx of precursor materials.
“To effectively combat the spread of kush, thorough screening of all cargo shipments at the ports is essential,” advised IGP Sellu.
In urging community involvement in policing efforts, IGP Sellu emphasized the importance of citizens reporting drug-related activities and providing information about drug lords and peddlers within their communities.
IGP Sellu also appealed to the judiciary and the ports authority to collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies and the public in the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse. SEG/20/3/2024