The three-day Joint Training Workshop for the Special Security Unit on Substance Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, organized by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), which started on the 4^th of November 2026, successfully came to an end yesterday, Friday, 6^th November 2026, at the Office of National Security Tower Hill, Freetown. The theme of the training was, “Strengthening Operational Capacity and Collaboration.”

The workshop brought together staff and volunteers of NDLEA alongside personnel from the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU), Office of National Security (ONS), the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), and the Central Intelligence and Security Agency (CISA).

Throughout the training, participants engaged in sessions aimed at strengthening their operational knowledge, promoting professionalism and improving coordination among the participating security and law enforcement institutions.

The sessions covered a range of important subject, including drug prevention and the role of enforcement officers in prevention, the Lead Strategy Framework, challenges and threats encountered during previous Special Security Operations, and the powers of arrest, investigation, seizure and prosecution enshrined in the National Drug Control Act.

Participants also received training on treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration, with emphasis on the need to approach people who use drugs with understanding and appropriate support rather than viewing them solely as criminals. Discussions highlighted the importance of treatment, recovery support and practical reintegration measures to help individuals rebuild their lives and return to their families and communities.

Practical Simulation Exercise

The final day of the workshop focused on translating the knowledge acquired during the training into practical skills through a simulated interdiction operation.

The exercise provided participants with an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of the procedures involved in conducting searches, identifying and collecting exhibits, and ensuring that recovered items are properly handled, secured and prepared for transfer.

Through the practical exercise, participants were able to apply the principles discussed during the training in a simulated interdiction setting. The exercise also reinforced the importance of proper evidence handling, accountability, coordination and professionalism throughout the process.

The practical component served as an important part of the workshop, allowing participants to move beyond theoretical discussions and gain hands-on experience relevant to their responsibilities within the Special Security Unit.

Closing Ceremony and Presentation of Certificates

The workshop concluded with closing remarks from the Executive Director of the NDLEA, Mr. Prince Amoh Bull-Luseni, and other relevant officials.

In his closing remarks, the Executive Director acknowledged the participation and commitment of the trainees and highlighted the importance of applying the knowledge and skills acquired during the workshop in the discharge of their duties. He also emphasised the need for continued professionalism, cooperation and collaboration among the participating institutions in addressing substance abuse and illicit trafficking.

The closing ceremony also featured the presentation of certificates to participants in recognition of their participation in the training. The certificates were signed by the Executive Director of the NDLEA, Mr Prince Amoh Bull-Luseni, and the Honourable Minister of Internal Affairs, AIG (Rtd) Morie Lengor Esq.

Overall Significance of the Training

The completion of the workshop marks an important step in the ongoing efforts to strengthen the operational preparedness and capacity of the Special Security Unit.

By bringing together personnel from different security and law enforcement institutions, the training reinforced the importance of shared responsibility, effective coordination and a collective approach to addressing substance abuse and illicit trafficking.

The NDLEA remains committed to strengthening institutional partnerships and supporting a professional, coordinated and effective response to drug-related challenges in Sierra Leone