Ouagadougou: The technical advisor to the Minister of Security, Inspector General of Police, Marie-Denise Sebgo, asserted on Tuesday that "Burkina Faso will be neither a sanctuary, nor a corridor, nor a market for drugs." This declaration was made during the incineration of nearly 40 kg of drugs.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event was held on the occasion of the 38th International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which is observed annually on June 26th. The National Committee for the Fight Against Drugs (CNLCD) marked the day by incinerating 39,137.98 kg of drugs at the headquarters of Nowata Burkina SA. The destroyed substances included 2,230.98 kg of cannabis, 36,917 kg of street drugs, and other illicit materials.

CNLCD officials stated that the primary aim of this operation is to eliminate the risk of drugs re-entering illicit circuits, reduce environmental pollution, and deter traffickers and criminal networks. Additionally, this initiative intends to alleviate storage facility congestion and reaffirm the Burkinabe State's commitment to combating drug-related issues.

In adherence to environmental standards, Nowata Burkina SA was tasked with conducting the incineration operation. The company, which was established in 2013, is certified by the Ministry of the Environment and the International Cyanide Management Code (ICMC). The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) also attended the event, marking the first incineration session of the new year.

Inspector General of Police, Ms. Sebgo Marie-Denise, emphasized the broader implications of the incineration beyond its physical execution, stating, "the message is clear, firm, and unequivocal: Burkina Faso will be neither a sanctuary, nor a corridor, nor a market for drugs." She urged collective mobilization to prioritize the fight against drugs nationally.

The permanent secretary of the National Committee for the Fight Against Drugs (SP/CNLCD), Mr. Emano«l Kabor, highlighted the symbolic significance of the day as a message to both the international community and drug traffickers. He assured, "All means are being mobilized to seize and destroy any drugs that enter Burkinabe territory."

Stakeholders underscore that the battle against drugs is built on key pillars: prevention, repression, and social reintegration.