By Kadiatu Sankoh
Africa Global Logistics (AGL), through Freetown Terminal Limited, joined the global community in commemorating the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with a high-level awareness event held at the Brookfields Hotel in Freetown.
Observed under the theme, “Vigilance from Everyone in the Fight Against Drug Trafficking,” the event brought together representatives from government institutions, law enforcement agencies, development partners, the media, and civil society to strengthen collaboration in combating drug abuse and trafficking in Sierra Leone.
Delivering remarks on behalf of Freetown Terminal Limited, Patrick Sannoh reaffirmed AGL Group’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a drug-free workplace through its strict zero-tolerance policy against drug abuse, possession, consumption, trafficking, and reporting to work under the influence of illegal substances.
He explained that the policy, which has been in force for more than three years, reflects the company’s commitment to providing a safe, secure, and respectful working environment for all employees and partners.
Sannoh emphasized that ports, airports, and border crossings remain attractive targets for organized criminal networks involved in drug trafficking. He therefore urged employees, partners, and members of the public to remain vigilant by observing and promptly reporting suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
He noted that AGL regularly organizes free awareness seminars for its workforce and business partners to reinforce anti-drug policies and educate staff on the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking.
The responsibility of maintaining a drug-free workplace does not rest solely with management. It is a collective responsibility shared by every employee and partner
He further warned that any violation of the company’s anti-drug policy would attract severe disciplinary measures, including immediate removal from duty, dismissal, and possible legal prosecution.
Sannoh stressed that creating awareness about the dangers of drug abuse empowers individuals to make informed decisions while contributing to safer workplaces and communities.
AGL Country Manager, Fabjanko Kokan, welcomed participants and thanked all stakeholders for supporting the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
He stressed that the gathering was more than a ceremonial observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse; it was a demonstration of solidarity with victims and a united stand against drug traffickers.
According to Kokan, drug trafficking continues to destroy families, undermine the healthcare system, fuel violence and crime, and rob young people of their future.
He described drug dealers as individuals driven solely by financial gain, with little regard for human life, dignity, integrity, or societal wellbeing.
Our children and future generations must be protected. Education remains one of the strongest tools in preventing young people from falling prey to drug traffickers, he stated.
He urged parents, teachers, religious leaders, and communities to educate and guide young people, while encouraging citizens to speak out against drug-related crimes rather than remain silent.
“Only by working together can we win this fight,” Kokan concluded.
Representatives of the National Revenue Authority (NRA) Customs Department highlighted the increasingly sophisticated methods employed by drug traffickers.
The officials explained that traffickers continuously develop new concealment techniques, often hiding narcotics inside legitimate cargo transported by road, sea, air, and postal services.
They acknowledged that although inspection procedures have improved, intelligence gathering remains the most effective weapon in intercepting illicit drugs.
“If you don’t have intelligence, you won’t be able to catch them,” one customs representative stated.
The officials praised the growing collaboration between the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), AGL, and other security institutions, noting that partnerships have significantly improved recent drug interdiction efforts.
They emphasized that no single institution can successfully combat drug trafficking alone, as traffickers constantly adapt their methods to evade law enforcement.
The Customs Department further called for continued investment in modern detection tools, intelligence-sharing, specialized training, and stronger inter-agency cooperation.
During a presentation on drug abuse awareness, a representative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) underscored the urgent need to build a healthier and more prosperous Sierra Leone through quality education, increased public awareness, and positive societal attitudes toward drug prevention and recovery.
The official noted that recovery from addiction is achievable when individuals receive sustained support from families, healthcare providers, faith-based organizations, civil society groups, communities, and government institutions.
He stressed that schools, workplaces, border authorities, and local communities all have important roles to play in preventing drug abuse, supporting rehabilitation, and ensuring the successful reintegration of recovering individuals without stigma or discrimination.
The NDLEA representative reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and substance abuse nationwide, while acknowledging the important contributions of rehabilitation facilities, including the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Teaching Hospital (SLPTH) and programmes supported by the Ministry of Social Welfare.
He called for increased investment in rehabilitation centres and stronger community-based support systems to help recovering addicts rebuild productive lives.
The interactive session concluded with participants asking questions, all of which were comprehensively addressed by the NDLEA representative.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ajuah Daramy, who expressed appreciation to all government agencies, development partners, stakeholders, and media practitioners for their participation and continued commitment to the national fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
The event reinforced a common message shared by all speakers: combating drug trafficking requires collective responsibility, sustained public awareness, strong partnerships, effective intelligence sharing, and continuous investment in education, prevention, and rehabilitation to safeguard Sierra Leone’s future generations.