Algeria proposed adding illicit trafficking and non-medical use of pregabalin to the agenda for the upcoming session of the Heads of National Drug Law Enforcement Agencies, Africa (HONLEA-Africa). The move establishes a new framework for continental anti-drug cooperation amid the uncontrolled spread and easy diversion of the substance, driven by its current international status. The announcement came via a statement released Saturday by the National Office for the Fight Against Drugs and Addiction (ONLDT).
ONLDT Director General Tarek Kour submitted the proposal at the conclusion of the 33rd HONLEA-Africa session. The action comes as pregabalin consumption escalates rapidly, particularly within Algeria, where its diversion from therapeutic channels poses a growing concern.
Algeria aims to elevate the issue from a national concern to a broader African cooperation priority. This framework will allow African nations to share operational experiences, map trafficking routes, and exchange intelligence on diversion methodologies.
The challenge surrounding pregabalin stems from its regulatory classification. Unlike many controlled narcotics and psychotropic substances, pregabalin remains unscheduled under international drug control treaties, increasing its vulnerability to non-medical diversion.
Algeria seeks to alert continental partners to this regulatory loophole. The rising illicit circulation of a legitimate pharmaceutical product presents distinct enforcement challenges for regional drug control agencies.
Including the topic on the agenda for the 34th HONLEA-Africa session will open broader discussions on coordinated responses. Key objectives involve strengthening information sharing on trafficking routes, diversion techniques, and regional trends. The approach aims to harmonize national regulatory frameworks and build African consensus for joint action, ultimately leading to actionable recommendations at national, regional, and international levels.
The initiative falls under HONLEA-Africa’s mandate to reinforce inter-state cooperation in countering illicit narcotics and psychotropic substances.
For Algerian authorities, evolving trafficking patterns require updated exchange mechanisms, as criminal networks diversify supply lines and exploit unscheduled substances—forcing law enforcement agencies to adapt strategies and enhance data sharing. Through this proposal, Algeria reinforces its commitment to combating psychoactive substance trafficking while strengthening collective African action.
Following the session, Ambassador Rachid Belhadane, Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office and international organizations in Vienna, hosted the Algerian delegation. The meeting provided a venue to review global drug policy issues and discuss mechanisms for alignment on international files.
Discussions focused on advancing Algerian interests through multilateral partnerships, extending the diplomatic momentum initiated by Algiers within HONLEA-Africa.