Conakry shisha and narcotics crackdown

Authorities in Conakry have initiated a crackdown on the sale and consumption of shisha (also referred to as chicha) to protect public health. Following directives from Prosecutor General Falilou Doumbouya, the Office central anti-drogue (OCAD) began operations targeting establishments and suppliers in several neighborhoods of the capital.

Initial interventions resulted in the seizure of 1,309 cartons of shisha charcoal and 168 accessories, alongside other substances such as tramadol and beer. OCAD Director General Abdoulaye Sangaré noted that the strategy aims to reduce access by targeting venues and suppliers rather than individual consumers.

Enforcement has since intensified, with raids on nightclubs and chicha lounges resulting in the arrest of 36 individuals, including 20 women. During these operations, security forces seized 146 chicha pipes, 20 cartons of flavorings, and two cartons of charcoal. Beyond the capital, police in Dixinn and Coyah conducted operations that uncovered significant stocks of equipment and accessories, including a shipment estimated to be the volume of a 40-foot container.

Judicial actions have also commenced. In Conakry, the Dixinn Court of First Instance sentenced Maurice Guilavogui, a manager at the Universel Lounge in Lambanyi, to a fine of 50,000 Guinean francs for the commercialization of shisha.

The crackdown has extended to Kankan, targeting both shisha and cannabis. On October 21, 2026, five individuals received prison terms and fines for shisha consumption, while three others received suspended sentences for the possession and sale of accessories. Furthermore, 28 individuals were brought before the Kankan Court of First Instance following an operation near the Milo River targeting cannabis; court proceedings for this case are scheduled to begin on October 28, 2026.