The Guinean authorities have arrested four managers of nightclubs and shisha salons in Conakry following the seizure of 1,309 cartons of chicha charcoal. The operation was carried out by the Central Anti-Drug Office (OCAD) on October 6, 2026. According to OCAD Director General, Commissioner Abdoulaye Sangaré, the seizure was made possible through a series of patrols conducted in several neighborhoods of the capital. The operations were carried out under a requisition from the Public Prosecutor near the Court of Appeal of Conakry.
The seizure also included 168 shisha accessories and various products and substances suspected of being mixed with flavors used in these products, including syrups and tablets. The OCAD had been conducting operations to crack down on the importation, distribution, and commercialization of chicha, which has been banned due to health risks. Commissioner Sangaré stated that despite multiple awareness campaigns, some managers continued to defy the ban.
The OCAD Director General highlighted the health risks associated with chicha consumption, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as certain cancers. He emphasized that the operations would continue in accordance with the provisions of the Penal Code. The arrested individuals include Mansa Traoré, who claimed not to be directly involved in the sale or consumption of chicha in the bar where he worked.
According to Traoré, the seized equipment had been removed from the premises and stored in a warehouse after the cessation of activities related to chicha. The OCAD operations were conducted under the requisition N°088/PG/CAC/2026 of September 21, 2026. The authorities have been working to enforce the ban on chicha, which has been in place for some time.
The Central Anti-Drug Office has been actively engaged in enforcing the ban on chicha in Conakry. Commissioner Sangaré emphasized that the office would continue to work to prevent the distribution and consumption of chicha. The authorities have been working to raise awareness about the health risks associated with chicha consumption.
The seized products and substances are currently being held by the OCAD. The four arrested managers are expected to face charges related to the importation, distribution, and commercialization of chicha. The OCAD operations aim to prevent the spread of chicha and protect public health.
The Guinean authorities have reiterated their commitment to enforcing the ban on chicha and preventing the distribution and consumption of the product. The OCAD will continue to conduct operations to crack down on those who defy the ban. The authorities urge the public to report any information related to the distribution and consumption of chicha.
Key points
- Four managers arrested in Conakry for selling chicha products
- Over 1,300 cartons of chicha charcoal seized by OCAD
- Authorities warn of health risks associated with chicha consumption
