In a significant crackdown on the use of chicha, a substance now classified as a narcotic by Guinean authorities, 16 individuals were arrested and detained in Labé. The operation, which took place on October 6-7, 2026, targeted several leisure establishments in the urban commune. According to the prosecutor of the Republic near the Labé court of first instance, Mohamed Samoura, the arrests were made following a directive from the Conakry Court of Appeal.
The operation was carried out by judicial police services from the gendarmerie and police, assisted by intervention units from the same bodies. A total of 10 leisure establishments were raided, resulting in the seizure of a substantial quantity of chicha-related materials. These included chicha devices, connectors, boxes of flavors, pipes, and pincers. The arrests were made under the requisition N°88/PG/CAC 20206, dated September 21, 2026, issued by the prosecutor general near the Conakry Court of Appeal.
The 16 individuals arrested were charged with consuming chicha in collective-use premises. Among them were 3 establishment managers and 13 consumers. They were all placed in provisional detention at the central house of Labé. The seized materials were placed under seal, and a decision on their confiscation and destruction will be taken by the judge.
The operation is part of a broader crackdown on the importation, distribution, and commercialization of chicha in Guinea. Authorities have been working to combat the proliferation of chicha use, which has become a growing concern in the country. The prosecutor, Mohamed Samoura, emphasized that the operation was a strict application of the directives from the high judicial instances of the country.
The case is now before the courts, and the suspects will have to answer for their actions before the justice system. The authorities have assured that they will continue to work to combat the use and distribution of chicha in Guinea. The operation in Labé is seen as a significant step in this effort.
The use of chicha has become a significant concern in Guinea, with authorities citing its negative impact on public health and social order. The government has been working to raise awareness about the dangers of chicha use and to strengthen laws and regulations to combat its use and distribution.
The Labé operation is a clear indication of the government's commitment to tackling the issue of chicha use in Guinea. The authorities have vowed to continue their efforts to combat the use and distribution of chicha, and to bring those responsible to justice.
Key points
- 16 people arrested in Labé for chicha use and possession
- Operation carried out following directive from Conakry Court of Appeal
- Seized materials to be presented to judge for confiscation and destruction
