Sierra Leone Faces More Scrutiny Over Drug Trafficking and Threatened EU Sanctions


In a recent media conversation, a member of parliament in Sierra Leone was asked whether MPs had engaged with law enforcement agencies over recent headlines. 

Responding, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, leader of the opposition in the Parliament of Sierra Leone, said heads of drug enforcement departments and agencies in Sierra Leone have testified in parliament, but he feels MPs must summon them again to explain the strong allegations swirling around the world.


He said the allegations are serious enough to require MPs to act and help address the reputational damage Sierra Leone is facing.

Quoting from a letter shared by the MP, the television host asked him about his thoughts on the letter he shared:


The letter read in part: "The European Parliament is now openly discussing sanctions and the possible suspension of development assistance to Sierra Leone over concerns about drug trafficking and the refusal to extradite individuals linked to transnational organized crime. This is a serious warning that should concern every patriotic Sierra Leonean. Our country cannot afford to gain an international reputation as a safe haven for drug traffickers, while those connected to powerful networks enjoy protection."


Hon. Kargbo said he is part of several groups of parliamentarians representing people across the world. A petition to suspend European Union aid and impose possible sanctions against Sierra Leone, submitted by a Dutch politician and European Union MP, has recently come to his attention. 


“We cannot allow our country to get to that stage,” he said. 


He urged patriotic Sierra Leoneans to keep calling on their representatives to find a national solution. Meanwhile, there have been constant media reports that Jos Leijdkeers is the mastermind of increased shipments of cocaine from Freetown to Europe. 

Take a listen here. 


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