Niamey, June 7, 2026 – Niger has taken a decisive step in its fight against drug trafficking by incinerating a massive haul of cocaine seized during multiple operations nationwide. The destruction ceremony unfolded this Sunday at the Central Livestock Laboratory (LABOCEL), under the supervision of the National Drug Control Coordination Commission (CNCLD).
Over 319 kilograms of cocaine eliminated
A total of 280 bricks of cocaine, weighing 319.745 kilograms, were destroyed. This substantial quantity originated from two major seizures: 47 bricks intercepted in Gaya, Dosso region, on September 29, 2025, and 233 bricks seized in Zinder on May 19, 2026.
Prior to incineration, forensic experts from the Directorate of Technical and Scientific Police (DPTS) conducted laboratory analysis on a sample of the substance. Tests confirmed it was cocaine hydrochloride (HCl).
Strict compliance with international drug disposal standards
Mai Moussa Elhadji Bashir, CNCLD president, emphasized that this operation adheres to international protocols for handling seized narcotics. He noted that authorities must destroy confiscated drugs within reasonable timeframes to mitigate risks associated with prolonged storage, particularly given that judicial proceedings can extend over several years.
Unified judicial and security efforts
The ceremony was led by Niger’s Justice Minister, Alio Daouda, who oversaw the destruction process alongside top judicial and security officials. Attendees included the Prosecutor of Niamey’s High Court, the Director of the Central Office for Drug Trafficking Suppression (OCRTIS), the Director-General of LABOCEL, and representatives from defense and security forces.
The elimination of over 300 kilograms of cocaine highlights Niger’s unwavering commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks—a growing threat to regional security and stability.
