International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Praises Tanzania For Masterminding War Against Drugs -

Tanzania has made major stride in dismantling drug trafficking networks and seizing huge quantities of narcotics

By Semaweb Reporter, Dar es Salaam

THE Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL), Ms. Maggie Nardi has praised the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) and the Tanzanian government for their efforts in combating drug abuse and trafficking.

Ms. Nardi pledged continued collaboration with the authority to enhance the fight against this global menace.

She made the statement when she visited the DCEA in Dar es Salaam, recently, along with her delegation.

During the visit she commend the DCEA for significant achievements in controlling drug trafficking, including dismantling major drug trafficking networks and seizing large quantities of narcotics.

“I commend you for the impressive work you are doing in dismantling drug trafficking networks and seizing significant quantities of narcotics. Our cooperation will continue to strengthen, and we applaud the Tanzanian government for its robust efforts in addressing this challenge,” she stressed.

In addition to her commendations, Ms. Nardi expressed her appreciation for DCEA’s efforts in drug demand reduction and the provision of rehabilitation services for drug addicts.

“I was unaware that DCEA is also involved in reducing drug demand and mitigating the harm caused by drugs. This is a commendable step that should be sustained,” she emphasised.

Addressing the threat of synthetic drugs, she highlighted the dangers posed by substances such as fentanyl, stressing the importance of international cooperation and information sharing to tackle the issue.

Records shows that the Tanzanian Anti-Narcotics Authorities, DCEA, managed to seized a record 1,965.34 tonnes of illicit drugs in 2023, the largest seizure in the last ten years.

“I hope fentanyl has not yet made significant inroads in this country, but we must remain vigilant. We continue to work together and share experiences to address the evolving dynamics of the drug trade.

This visit symbolises the strengthening of international cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking. DCEA continues to work with various stakeholders to combat this crisis and reduce its impact on society.

ABOUT DCEA

The Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) was established by section 3 of the Drug Control and Enforcement Act No. 5 of 2015 which came into force on 15th September, 2015 . The Drug Control and Enforcement Act No. 5 of 2015 repealed the Drugs and Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Drugs Act Act No. 9 of 1995 that had established the Drug Control Commission with responsibility coordinating drug control activities in the Country.

The Drug Control and Enforcement Authority was established to address the shortfalls in the institutional Framework as the Commission faced various challenges including lack of legal powers to investigate, arrest, search and seize.

The Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) is vested with powers to conduct investigation, arrest, search and seize and became operational on 17th February, 2017 upon appointment of the Commissioner General by the President of the United Republic of Tanzania.

The functions of the Authority (DCEA) are to define, promote, coordinate and implement all measures geared towards control of drugs, drug abuse and trafficking in drugs.