The Kédougou Regional Security Brigade (BRS) has dealt a major blow in the fight against drug trafficking. Two days ago, on Tuesday, around 5 a.m., members of the unit arrested Habiboulahi Sow, alias "Habibou," 35 years old, a Guinean national and mechanic by profession, in the Lafiya neighborhood.

This arrest brings to an end several months of pursuit. The suspect was actively sought in connection with investigations into a vast psychotropic drug trafficking network operating between Lafiya, Diakhaba, and Diouraba. Presented by investigators as the alleged kingpin of the network, he had been mentioned several times by three traffickers arrested separately in these localities.

According to security sources, the investigation revealed that the man had taken refuge in Guinea after the arrest of his alleged accomplices. His discreet return to Lafiya was reportedly alerted to investigators, who immediately set up surveillance to locate his home and arrange for his arrest.

The search of his home and warehouse resulted in the seizure of 1,230 packs of counterfeit cigarettes. Regarding Tramadol tablets, a substance often diverted for illicit purposes, the suspect reportedly refused to tell investigators where they were hidden.

For the purposes of the investigation, the three individuals previously arrested—V. Traoré in Lafiya, M. Ibro in Diakhaba, and D. Sané in Diouraba—were taken from their cells for questioning. All three reportedly formally identified Habiboulahi Sow as their main supplier of psychotropic drugs, thus reinforcing investigators' suspicions of his central role in the network.

Held in police custody for 48 hours, the suspect was brought before the relevant prosecutor's office this morning. The investigation continues to determine the exact extent of the network and to identify any other accomplices.

This operation illustrates the determination of the security forces to dismantle drug trafficking networks in the Kédougou region, a phenomenon with serious social and health consequences.