On October 6, 2026, the Office Central Anti-Drogue (OCAD) in Guinea presented four individuals arrested for their involvement in the sale and consumption of chicha, a popular waterpipe smoking product. The arrests were made in various neighborhoods of Conakry, the capital city, following instructions from the prosecutor general. The OCAD also showcased a large haul of seized products, including 1,309 cartons of chicha charcoal and 168 accessories.
According to Abdoulaye Sangaré, director general of the OCAD, the operations were carried out by the division of operations of his service, which conducted patrols in different neighborhoods of the capital. The patrols resulted in the seizure of the large quantity of chicha charcoal and accessories, as well as other products such as Théralène syrup, Phénergan tablets, beer, and tramadol. These products are often mixed with aromas to create a narcotic substance.
The OCAD highlighted the health risks associated with chicha consumption, stating that it is more harmful than cigarette smoking. According to Sangaré, a single chicha session is equivalent to smoking 20 to 40 cigarettes and contains toxic substances, tar, and carbon monoxide. The OCAD warned that chicha consumption can impact lung, bladder, and digestive tract health.
Despite previous awareness campaigns, the OCAD noted that many chicha lounges and bars continue to operate, contributing to public health problems. The office plans to intensify its efforts to crack down on these establishments, targeting those that supply and sell chicha products. Sangaré emphasized that the OCAD will focus on cutting off the supply chain, rather than arresting individual users.
The four arrested individuals, however, disputed their involvement in the sale or management of chicha products. Moussa Traoré claimed he was working as a drink vendor at a bar and had no connection to the chicha equipment. Thierno Amadou Diallo stated that he was not the manager of the establishment where he worked and had no involvement in chicha sales.
Yamoussa Bangoura and Rawo Yombouno also denied any wrongdoing, with Bangoura claiming he was simply at a bar to consume alcohol and Yombouno stating that the chicha equipment at his workplace was not in use. The OCAD, however, maintains that it has gathered sufficient evidence to support the arrests and will continue to target those involved in the chicha trade.
The OCAD's efforts to combat chicha-related offenses are part of a broader strategy to address substance abuse in Guinea. The office aims to work with law enforcement and other stakeholders to eradicate the problem, with a focus on education and awareness-raising efforts. The recent arrests serve as a warning to those involved in the chicha trade that the authorities are taking a tough stance on the issue.
Key points
- Four individuals were arrested in Conakry for their involvement in the sale and consumption of chicha products.
- The OCAD seized 1,309 cartons of chicha charcoal and 168 accessories during the operations.
- The authorities highlighted the health risks associated with chicha consumption, citing its potential to cause lung, bladder, and digestive tract problems.
