UNIOGBIS witnessed the incineration of around two tons of cocaine

Before being destroyed, the drugs were re-tested in the presence of National and international dignitaries, including members of the Diplomatic Corp, UN officials, INTERPOL and the media.

In her remarks at the event, Filomena Maria Vaz Mendes, Director General of the Judiciary Police expressed appreciation to her team in combating drug trafficking despite the difficult challenges encountered. “The Judiciary Police is aware of its responsibilities and is taking on more responsibility than ever before in the fight against drug trafficking and criminal organizations that tend to take advantage of Guinea-Bissau’s geostrategic positioning and exploit weaknesses in the ability to effectively control the whole of the territory, especially the island” she said, expressing her appreciation to UNIOGBIS and other international organizations that have been supporting the JP. 

Representing the SRSG, Ms. Rosine H. Coulibaly-Sori, UNIOGBIS Chief of Political Section Donatella Giubilaro stated “this is a memorable occasion in Guinea-Bissau's historic annals. […] I encourage the police to continue carrying out effective security interventions that will keep Guinea-Bissau protected from the dangers of drug trafficking and its impact on society at large,” reiterating that the United Nations and other international partners will continue to provide support to the government of Guinea Bissau in the fight against drug trafficking.

Further investigation has led to the arrest of 10 persons and the confiscation of luxury cars as well as communication and logistic equipment.

UNIOGBIS section for Combating Drug Trafficking and Organized Crime (CDTOC) continues to provide strategic and technical advice and support to the Government of Guinea-Bissau to combat drug trafficking and transnational organized crime, in close cooperation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).