Niamey destroys 319 kg of cocaine in major drug bust cleanup

Niamey, June 7, 2026 — Nigeria’s anti-drug authorities have taken decisive action against drug trafficking by incinerating a massive haul of cocaine seized in multiple operations nationwide. The high-profile destruction ceremony unfolded at Niamey’s Central Livestock Laboratory (LABOCEL) under the supervision of the National Anti-Drug Coordination Commission (CNCLD).

319 kilograms of cocaine obliterated in public destruction

A total of 280 cocaine bricks—weighing 319.745 kilograms—were burned in a controlled incineration process. These drugs were recovered in two major operations: 47 bricks intercepted in Gaya, Dosso Region, on September 29, 2025, and 233 bricks seized in Zinder on May 19, 2026.

Prior to incineration, specialists from the Directorate of Technical and Scientific Police (DPTS) conducted rigorous laboratory tests. Results confirmed the substance as cocaine hydrochloride (HCl), a potent form of the drug often linked to international trafficking networks.

Strict compliance with drug disposal protocols

During the ceremony, CNCLD President Mai Moussa Elhadji Bashir emphasized that the destruction aligns with global standards for handling seized narcotics. He noted that prompt disposal prevents storage-related risks, particularly when legal proceedings can drag on for years before final rulings.

Unified front against drug trafficking

Justice Minister Alio Daouda presided over the event, flanked by top judicial and security officials. Attendees included the Prosecutor of the Niamey High Court, the Director of the Central Office for Combating Illicit Drug Trafficking (OCRTIS), the LABOCEL Director General, and representatives from defense and security forces.

The incineration of over 300 kilograms of cocaine underscores Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks—a growing menace to regional security and stability in the Sahel.