Gambiaj.com – (BISSAU, Guinea-Bissau) – In a decisive move against drug trafficking, the Judicial Police (PJ) of Guinea-Bissau incinerated over two and a half tons of cocaine on Thursday, September 19, 2024. The incineration took place in Safim, near Bissau, following the recent seizure of the narcotics from an aircraft at the Osvaldo Vieira International Airport. The ceremony was closely supervised by national judicial authorities and international experts, including representatives from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Interpol, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

The event was attended by prominent officials such as the Minister of the Interior, the Attorney General of the Republic, the Chief of the Armed Forces, and members of the Supreme Court of Justice. Accredited diplomats in Bissau and representatives from civil society were also present, underscoring the significance of the operation.

Domingos Monteiro Correia, the National Director of the Judicial Police, stated that the destruction of the narcotics was carried out in accordance with Article 36 of the country’s drug law, following an order from the presiding magistrate. “This act is not only procedural but also a demonstration of our commitment to the rule of law and the fight against narcotics,” Correia said. He emphasized that the operation was conducted with full transparency and legal oversight to ensure compliance with international protocols.

Ana Cristina de Andrade, the UNODC Representative in Guinea-Bissau, praised the authorities for their transparent handling of the drug destruction. She highlighted the importance of continued vigilance and the need to educate the youth about the perils of drug abuse. “This act sets a positive precedent for future operations and showcases the government’s commitment to combating the drug trade with integrity and international cooperation,” Andrade remarked.

Despite the celebratory tone, human rights activist Bubacar Turé voiced concerns about potential impunity in the legal process. He criticized the Supreme Court for previous instances where suspects, despite compelling evidence, were released. “Such actions undermine the efforts of the judicial police and send the wrong message to those involved in the drug trade,” Turé asserted.

The incineration follows the high-profile seizure of the cocaine shipment on September 8, which involved the arrest of five individuals of Latin American origin. This operation is viewed as a significant victory in Guinea-Bissau’s ongoing struggle against drug trafficking, a problem that has long plagued the nation due to its strategic location on the transatlantic smuggling route.

The Judicial Police, backed by the Ministry of the Interior and international partners, pledged to intensify efforts to dismantle trafficking networks operating within the country. With the ongoing investigation expected to yield more arrests, officials hope that this action will serve as a strong deterrent to future criminal activity.

The collaborative effort, involving multiple stakeholders from civil society and international organizations, was lauded for its comprehensive and inclusive approach. Ana Cristina Andrade concluded, “The transparent and coordinated manner in which this process was conducted is a model for the region and reflects Guinea-Bissau’s growing resolve to tackle the challenges posed by drug trafficking.”

As the dust settles on this major drug bust, authorities are urging continued vigilance and international cooperation to combat the pervasive influence of drug cartels in the region.