By Fatou Bojang
The Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) recently organized a public drug destruction exercise on Old Cape Road in Cape Point, Kanifing Municipality, underscoring its commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking. This event highlighted the agency’s achievements in disposing of illicit substances that have completed their legal proceedings.
During the exercise, DLEAG Director General Demba Ceesay announced record-breaking seizures, providing details on the significant quantities of various drugs that had been confiscated. These included 2T, 18kg, and 60mg of cannabis sativa; 42kg, 974g, and 785mg of cannabis resin (hashish); 400g each of skunk cannabis and kush; 117kg, 600g, and 837mg of cocaine; alongside 3,505 ecstasy pills.
Ceesay emphasized the need for a holistic approach to drug-related issues, stating that DLEAG is committed not only to suppressing supply but also to implementing initiatives aimed at reducing demand. “Our strategic efforts have effectively disrupted the illegal drug trade by intercepting significant amounts of substances and dismantling various drug syndicates,” he remarked, reinforcing the agency’s mission to safeguard the youth and society from the perils of drug trafficking.
Samba Faal, Chairman of the DLEAG Board of Governors, echoed the sentiment that drug trafficking and abuse represent a global challenge that impacts families, individuals, and communities alike. He noted that the strategic advancements of DLEAG are rooted in the growing qualifications of its personnel, enabling them to tackle evolving trafficking methods.
Faal advocated for a comprehensive approach that involves families, educators, and international partners to address the drug crisis effectively. He highlighted the importance of instilling values and life skills in children while also emphasizing the need for supportive environments to mitigate drug-related issues.
Faal concluded by stating that collaboration with organizations such as UNODC and ECOWAS is essential for aligning anti-drug efforts with broader Sustainable Development Goals, thereby creating a united front in the battle against drug abuse and trafficking.