National Drugs Control Act, 2008
The principal Act for the control of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and the suppression of drug trafficking in Sierra Leone.
Summary
The National Drugs Control Act, 2008 is the principal law for the control of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in Sierra Leone and the suppression of their illicit production, trafficking and use. It was enacted amid concern over the country's use as a transit point for international drug trafficking.
The Act prohibits and criminalises the cultivation, manufacture, possession, importation, exportation, supply and trafficking of controlled drugs, with substantial penalties. It provides for the licensing and control of the legitimate medical and scientific use of such substances, for enforcement powers (including search, seizure and the confiscation of drug proceeds), and for a national drug-control body to coordinate policy and enforcement.
It gives effect to Sierra Leone's obligations under the international drug-control conventions.
Main provisions
- Prohibits and criminalises the trafficking, supply and possession of controlled drugs.
- Controls the legitimate medical and scientific use of narcotic and psychotropic substances.
- Confers enforcement powers of search, seizure and arrest.
- Provides for the confiscation of the proceeds of drug offences.
- Provides for a national drug-control body and coordination of policy.
- Gives effect to international drug-control conventions.