2026.6.1 Three Reportedly Confess as Eight Accused Face Witchcraft Allegations in Freetown
Three of eight individuals accused of witchcraft in the Mama Beach community in Freetown have reportedly been found guilty following confessions made during ongoing local investigations, according to information circulating on social media.
Reports shared by local online platform alleged that the eight individuals were identified and accused of engaging in witchcraft-related activities within the community.
The reports further claimed that three of the accused persons admitted involvement during the course of inquiries being conducted by local authorities and community stakeholders.
The allegations have generated widespread discussion and concern among residents, with many closely following developments surrounding the case. Community members are reportedly seeking clarity on the circumstances surrounding the accusations and the methods used in the investigation.
Social media reports indicate that the matter remains under review, although details regarding the identities of the accused persons, the nature of the alleged offences, and the process through which the confessions were obtained have not been independently verified.
No official statement from law enforcement authorities or the courts was immediately available to independently confirm the allegations, the reported confessions, or any formal finding of guilt at the time of publication.
A Freetown High Court judge has sentenced a woman to 45 years in prison after she was caught attempting to smuggle a stash of tramadol, cannabis, and kush to her husband during his criminal trial.
On Monday, May 25, 2026, Justice Mark Ngegba convicted Zainab Bintu Samura on six counts of unlawful possession and dealing in prohibited drugs under the 2008 National Drugs Control Act. The ruling brings a conclusion to a dramatic courtroom breach that occurred late last year.
Delivering his judgment at the Criminal Division of the High Court, Justice Ngegba stated that prosecutors A. Jalloh and E.A. Deen had proven their case beyond a reasonable doubt. He noted that Samura failed to show any lawful authority for possessing the prohibited substances, as required under Section 17 of the Act.
“The defendant was found in possession of and dealing with tramadol, cannabis sativa and kush,” Justice Ngegba ruled.
The judge returned guilty verdicts on all six counts. Samura was sentenced to 15 years in prison for each of the first four counts, and 45 years each for counts five and six. Because the sentences are structured to run concurrently, she will serve a maximum of 45 years behind bars.
During the trial, the court heard from three prosecution witnesses, including Detective Police Constable Abdul Koroma from the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU), and reviewed forensic evidence confirming the nature of the seized drugs. Samura, represented by defense attorney M.Y. Conteh, had pleaded not guilty upon her arraignment in February 2026.
The charges stem from a chaotic incident on November 6, 2025, at Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 1. According to court records and witness accounts, Samura attended a hearing for her husband, Joseph Kabia, alias “Manager,” who was actively facing 17 charges including forgery, unlawful concealment of ammunition, and possession of arms without a license.
While Kabia was seated in the courtroom waiting for his trial to proceed, Samura reportedly arrived carrying a black handbag, which she placed near him. She then attempted to discretely slide a white plastic bag from the handbag underneath her husband’s seat.
Prison officers Madina Sesay and Isha Bundu spotted the suspicious movement and immediately intervened. When the officers pulled the bag from under Kabia’s seat, they discovered it contained an assortment of prohibited drugs. According to forensic analysis, the package held 100.4 grams of tramadol (210 pink circular blistered tablets), 60 grams of kush and 40 grams of loose cannabis sativa.
The discovery sparked a sudden scuffle inside the courtroom. Seeing the officers retrieve the bag, Kabia reportedly tried to snatch the contraband back, forcing security to physically restrain him to prevent further escalation. Samura was immediately arrested by TOCU officers and taken into custody.
Following the incident, authorities mandated tighter security protocols at judicial facilities to prevent contraband from breaching courtroom environments. Joseph Kabia currently remains in remand custody awaiting the conclusion of his own trial.
2026.5.30 Murder Suspect Committed to High Court for Trial
The Magistrate Court in Masiaka Town, Port Loko District, has committed a murder suspect to stand trial before the High Court in Port Loko following a ruling delivered by His Worship Harold Kamara on Wednesday.
The accused, Santigie Conteh, alias “PZ,” is facing a charge of murder contrary to Section 1 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, as amended by the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act No. 6 of 2022. The matter is listed as Criminal Session No. 113/2026.
The prosecution, led by Sergeant 7716 Sesay A.M. on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, alleged that on 27 April 2026 at Old Freetown Road in Masiaka Town, Koya Chiefdom, the accused unlawfully stabbed and killed Fatmata Conteh.
During the committal proceedings, the court considered witness statements, documentary exhibits, photographs, the alleged murder weapon, a post-mortem report, a cause of death certificate, and the accused’s voluntary cautioned statement, in accordance with Section 112 of the Criminal Procedure Act No. 8 of 2024.
Witnesses Zainab Kanu and Idrissa Kargbo testified that the deceased identified the accused as her attacker before collapsing. The post-mortem report and cause of death certificate confirmed that Fatmata Conteh died from injuries sustained to her neck.
In his ruling, Magistrate Kamara noted that the accused’s cautioned statement, marked as Exhibits G1–G28, formed a significant part of the prosecution’s evidence. According to the statement, the accused allegedly admitted, “I used the knife and stabbed her,” and further stated that the allegation against him was “true and correct.”
The court also admitted into evidence photographs of the deceased and a stainless steel knife without a handle, alleged to have been used in the commission of the offence.
As murder is an indictable offence, no plea was taken from the accused. Relying on the legal principles established in R v Galbraith and Woolmington v DPP, Magistrate Kamara ruled that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence upon which a reasonable High Court jury or judge could convict.
“The defendant is hereby committed to stand trial before the High Court at Port Loko on the charge of murder,” Magistrate Kamara ruled pursuant to Section 110 of the Criminal Procedure Act.
Simpson Vandi Kallon, 34, a police officer; Mohamed Katalie Lamin, 36, an employee of the National Petroleum Authority (NPAA); and Eric Brima Byle, a private security guard at Chapter One Night Club, have been committed to the High Court over alleged kidnapping and robbery charges after making another appearance before Principal Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown.
The defendants are facing three counts of conspiracy, robbery with aggravation, and kidnapping.
According to the charge sheet, on Sunday, 29 March 2026, at Touch Point Bar near Saint Mary Supermarket, Hill Cut, Freetown, the defendants allegedly conspired with other persons unknown to commit the offences.
On count two, the prosecution alleged that the defendants, while armed with a pistol, robbed Ibrahim Koroma of three gold chains valued at $30,000, two mobile phones—an iPhone 17 Pro Max valued at $1,800 and an iPhone 17 valued at $1,500—as well as $140,000 and Le360,000 in cash. Police further alleged that personal violence was used against the complainant during the incident.
On the third count, the defendants allegedly kidnapped Ibrahim Koroma at Juba Bridge, Freetown, and held him hostage at G-Complex Guest House in Mile 91, where they reportedly demanded a ransom of $300,000 for his release.
When the charges were read and explained to the defendants, no plea was taken.
C.S.P. Tommy B. Zizer Esq. led prosecution witnesses and closed the prosecution’s case, after which the matter was withdrawn for ruling.
Delivering his ruling, Magistrate Jah said that having carefully examined the evidence before the court, he was satisfied that the prosecution had adduced sufficient evidence to warrant the committal of the matter to the High Court for trial.
The defendants were accordingly remanded in custody pending their appearance before the High Court for further proceedings.
2026.5.25 Over 20 Sierra Leoneans Trapped in Alleged Human Trafficking Scheme in The Gambia
An alleged human trafficking network is under investigation after more than 20 Sierra Leoneans were reportedly lured into a fraudulent migration scheme promising visas to the United States, Canada, and Australia.
According to The Standard newspaper and the Sierra Leone High Commission in The Gambia, victims were recruited in Sierra Leone with assurances of facilitated overseas travel. They were allegedly asked to pay between US$1,000 and US$1,500 in processing fees before being transported to The Gambia.
Upon arrival, some victims reportedly had their passports and mobile phones confiscated and were housed in compounds in Busumbala and Farato, communities located outside the capital, Banjul. Victims claimed they were informed that their visa applications were being processed locally, but many remained in the compounds for extended periods without clear information about their travel status.
The Sierra Leone High Commission said it uncovered the alleged operation following a tip-off. Officials visited a compound in Busumbala, where they found dozens of young men and women who said they had been deceived into travelling under false pretences. Several victims reportedly said they had sold family land and other assets to raise the required fees.
Mahawa Allieu, Communications Attaché at the High Commission, stated that at least 21 Sierra Leoneans were allegedly involved in the network as recruiters. She said these individuals used social media platforms and fabricated digital content, including edited or generated images, to create false impressions of successful migration cases in order to attract new victims.
In a coordinated operation led by Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to The Gambia, Martha Consilia Kanagbo, authorities raided one of the compounds in Busumbala. The operation resulted in the rescue of 24 women and two men believed to be victims of the scheme.
Gambian authorities have reportedly arrested suspected members of the network, although details of those detained and any formal charges have not yet been disclosed.
Officials in both Sierra Leone and The Gambia say investigations are ongoing, with concerns that additional victims may still be held in other locations. The full scope of the alleged trafficking network remains under investigation.
Authorities across West Africa continue to warn the public against paying large sums for unverified migration opportunities, noting that fraudulent recruitment schemes increasingly target young people seeking employment abroad.
No formal charges have been announced at this stage.
Police personnel deployed at the Ngelehun Checkpoint in the Bo East Division on Thursday, 14th May 2026, intercepted an unlicensed vehicle travelling along the Koribondo–Pujehun–Jendema route.
During a routine search, officers arrested one Abu Bakarr Sesay, popularly known as “Gaza”, after he was allegedly found in possession of eight ounces of suspected kush concealed in black plastic wraps.
The suspect and the recovered exhibits have been taken to the police station for further investigation.
Mile 38, Sierra Leone – Personnel attached to the Mile 38 Police Checkpoint, under the tactical command of Superintendent Foday Sorie Fofanah, Officer Commanding (O.C.) Mile 38, on Saturday 9 May 2026 arrested a suspect and seized a consignment of substances suspected to be prohibited drugs.
The suspect, identified as Mohamed Sheriff, a driver residing in Kissy, Freetown, was reportedly in control of a vehicle bearing registration number AXO 085 when he was intercepted by police officers at the checkpoint.
According to police reports, a thorough search conducted on the vehicle led to the discovery of a concealed compartment beneath the rear seat, where eleven parcels of dry leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa were found hidden.
The suspect and the recovered substances are currently in police custody, while investigations continue. x1200
The Family Support Unit (FSU) of the Sierra Leone Police in the Southern Region has confirmed the arrest of a herbalist accused of child cruelty and issuing death threats in Bo.
The suspect, identified as Sulaiman, popularly known as “Mustas,” is currently in police custody at the Bo East Police Station. This was disclosed by the FSU Southern Regional Coordinator, DASP Mohamed Kanneh, in response to concerns raised by civil society organizations (CSOs) and a social media report by the Executive Director of PEACE-SALONE, Aruna Kamara.
DASP Kanneh commended members of the public for their cooperation, noting that the arrest followed information shared through social media platforms. Stating that such collaboration between the police and the public is critical in combating crime and ensuring community safety.
The case was initially brought to light by the Secretary General of the Bo District Civil Society Forum and Chairman of the Bo District Human Rights Committee, Momoh Kamara. Mr. Kamara alleged that the herbalist had subjected three children, believed to be his biological children—to repeated acts of abuse in the Manjama community, including physical assault and the burning of their learning materials and clothing in public.
According to Momoh Kamara, when he attempted to engage the suspect to hear his side of the story, the herbalist allegedly threatened to kill him openly and boasted that he would face no consequences. The matter was subsequently reported to the police after the suspect allegedly failed to honor an invitation for questioning at the East End Police Station.
Medical reports have since been obtained for the affected children, with support from the Rainbow Center, while investigations remain ongoing.
Civil society organizations in Bo have expressed concern over the welfare of the children and have called for swift justice. The Gender and Child Protection Desk of PEACE-SALONE also urged the Sierra Leone Police and the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone to ensure that the suspect is held accountable, stressing that no one is above the law.
Efforts to obtain comments from the suspect have so far been unsuccessful. Police say investigations are continuing, and further updates are expected as the case develops.
2026.4.22 Secrets, Threats, and Tragedy: Inside The Shocking Death of a 16-Year-Old School Girl in Port Loko
Fresh details have emerged in the alleged tragic killing of 16-year-old Isatu Aminata Kamara an SSS 2 pupil, whose body was discovered in a bush near Komrabai Village
According to Crime Officer Inspector Bangali Bangura during a Radio Program on Advocacy Radio, Aminata’s parents, Mr. Kapri Kamara and Aminata Bangura, recounted that the deceased had been involved in a secret relationship with a young man known as Ofolla. Concerns began to grow in January this year when her mother noticed a decline in her daughter’s health, and suspecting pregnancy. When questioned, Isatu reportedly struggled to give clear answers.
The situation escalated when she was taken to a pharmacist at Gberay Junction, who confirmed that she was pregnant and had already undergone attempts to terminate it. Upon further questioning, Isatu identified Ofolla as responsible for the pregnancy.
This revelation triggered tensions between both families, leading to confrontations that reportedly turned violent. During one such incident, Isatu was allegedly beaten by Ofolla, prompting her to report the matter to the police at Gberay Junction. Although Ofolla was briefly arrested, the matter was later handled by community members for a peaceful settlement.
However, during this process, serious threats were allegedly made against the deceased. Ofolla and his sister were reported to have issued threatening remarks, with claims that Ofolla had earlier warned Isatu he would kill her if news of the pregnancy become public.
On Sunday, March 31, Isatu reportedly left home in the afternoon, telling her family she was going to Gberay Junction to buy food items. That was the last time she was seen alive.
Her disappearance for some days sparked concern until Tuesday, when her lifeless body was discovered in a nearby bush in Komrabai Village. The discovery sent shockwaves through the community.
Police officers from the Port Loko Division, led by Crime Officer Inspector Bangalie Bangura, responded swiftly to the scene after receiving reports of a suspected murder. The body was identified and transported to the Port Loko Government Hospital for preliminary examination. Plans were made to transfer the remains to Connaught Hospital in Freetown for a postmortem, but decomposition had already begun, complicating the process.
At the request of the family, the body was released for burial. However, police have since initiated procedures for possible exhumation to allow for a more detailed forensic examination by medical experts from Freetown.
Meanwhile, the main suspects—Ofolla and his sister—are currently on the run. Two other individuals, Santigie Kamara (a bike rider) and Abubakarr Bundu (a carpenter), both residents of Gberay Junction, were arrested in connection with the case but they have denied any involvement.
The Sierra Leone Police have confirmed that a full murder investigation is ongoing. Authorities say they are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.
Mountain Division, 15 March 2026 — In a major crackdown on the possession of illegal drugs and firearms, the Operations Team of the Mountain Division conducted a targeted raid on Sunday, resulting in the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of dangerous items.
The operation was launched following intelligence reports and led to the arrest of Alusine Barrie of Leicester Village at Leicester Wash Bay. Barrie was found in possession of twenty tablets of Tramadol, a controlled substance.
During questioning, Barrie identified Jeremiah Lawundeh, of No. 19 Edie Mauculey Street, Gloucester, as a person of interest. Acting on this information, the Police conducted a follow-up raid at Lawundeh’s residence, where additional illegal items were recovered, including ten cards of Tramadol, a pistol with four live rounds, and a suspicious object believed to be a human bone.
Both suspects, along with the exhibits, are currently assisting the Police with ongoing investigations.
Police officers on routine patrol have arrested a female suspect in possession of 107 wraps of suspected kush at Talia Torgboma Village in the Kenema District.
Hawa Bockarie was taken into custody on Tuesday, 17th February 2026, following a lawful stop and search conducted by officers on duty in the area, according to a statement from the Sierra Leone Police Media East.
The operation was carried out by D/Sgt. 9612 Massaquoi A.Y., D/PC 14932 Joseph R.N., and D/PC 19300 Vandi B.M., whose coordinated efforts led to the safe arrest of the suspect and the recovery of the exhibits without incident.
Upon discovery, the suspected wraps of kush were immediately secured and documented in line with standard police procedures for evidential purposes.
Bockarie has since been conveyed to the Kenema police station, where she remains in lawful custody assisting with investigations. Police officials confirmed that the recovered exhibits will be subjected to further examination, and upon completion of investigations, the suspect will be charged in court accordingly.
The Sierra Leone Police reaffirmed that the arrest underscores their commitment to intensifying efforts against drug-related crimes and protecting communities from the dangers associated with illicit substances across all thirteen chiefdoms in the Kenema Division.
2026.2.17 Alleged Police Assault on Edwina Jamiru Sparks Public Concern
Allegations have emerged that political activist Ms Edwina Hawa Jamiru was assaulted by officers of the Sierra Leone Police, reportedly leaving her unconscious and sparking public concern over the conduct of law enforcement.
According to claims circulating on social media and among her supporters, the incident occurred during an encounter with police officers. It is alleged that Ms Jamiru was beaten while in police custody, although the exact circumstances leading to the confrontation remain unclear.
The incident has drawn attention to the leadership of Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, with some supporters questioning the actions of officers under his command. However, the police have not yet issued an official statement confirming or denying the allegations.
Supporters of Ms Jamiru have condemned the alleged assault, describing it as a violation of her rights and calling for a full and transparent investigation into the matter. Some women’s groups and political activists have also expressed solidarity with her, urging authorities to ensure accountability.
The alleged incident has further fueled debate about police conduct and the treatment of political activists in Sierra Leone.
As of now, Ms Jamiru’s condition and whether any formal complaint has been filed remain unknown.
A joint team of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has arrested a man in possession of a large quantity of suspected Free Healthcare drugs at the Mile 38 checkpoint in Masiaka Division.
The operation, conducted on 14 February 2026, forms part of ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and other illegal activities along major transit routes.
The team, led by Superintendent Foday Sorie Fofanah, apprehended Amadu Koroma, a resident of Masumana Village, Koya Chiefdom, Port Loko District.
According to security officials, the suspect was found with a substantial quantity of drugs believed to be part of the Government’s Free Healthcare programme. Some of the medicines were reportedly expired at the time of seizure.
During preliminary questioning, the suspect admitted ownership of the drugs.
Both the suspect and the recovered exhibits have been handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation.
Police officers at the Maforkie Checkpoint have intercepted a vehicle transporting suspected cannabis sativa and arrested two individuals in connection with the seizure.
The incident occurred today, 6 February 2026, when a vehicle with registration number AVE 473, travelling from Freetown to Kambia, was stopped for routine checks. The driver, identified as Abu Bakarr Kamara of Waterloo, was found in control of the vehicle at the time of interception.
A thorough search reportedly led to the discovery of 21 parcels of suspected cannabis sativa concealed in the vehicle. Following the discovery, Anita Koroma of Peninsula Road, Waterloo, was arrested in connection with the suspected drugs.
Both suspects, along with the recovered exhibits and the vehicle, have been taken to the Port Loko Police Station where investigations are ongoing.
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The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) have announced the arrest of seven notorious armed robbers in connection with a deadly attack on a fuel station in Makeni, as part of ongoing operations targeting violent criminals and drug dealers. The announcement was made during the police’s weekly press briefing on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
According to the police operations team, the suspects are allegedly responsible for the attack on SS Loge Fuel Station in Makeni, which occurred on January 12, 2026, around 7 p.m. During the attack, gunmen opened fire on the fuel station, resulting in the death of one attendant.
The arrests were made following extensive police raids and investigations. During the operations, law enforcement officials recovered various weapons from the suspects, including a cutlass, a firearm, a hoe, and other items believed to have been used in criminal activities.
Police further disclosed that among those apprehended were women who were also involved in drug dealing, highlighting the combined focus of the operations on armed robbery and narcotics offenses.
“The Sierra Leone Police remain committed to ensuring public safety,” the force stated, emphasizing that the case is still under investigation to ensure all individuals involved are brought to justice.
In a separate update, the police also provided information on a recent incident in which a young man, mistakenly accused of theft, was beaten and later died. Investigators currently have three suspects in custody as they continue to probe the circumstances surrounding his death.
The SLP reiterated its determination to combat violent crime and maintain law and order across the country, calling on members of the public to provide information that could aid ongoing investigations.
The Sierra Leone Police in Kenema have arrested two individuals for the alleged illegal possession of suspected Kush as part of ongoing operations to curb drug trafficking and abuse within the municipality.
According to police sources in the Kenema Division, the arrests were made on Thursday, 29 January 2026, during separate operations carried out by divisional police officers under a sustained campaign to disrupt the sale and distribution of illicit drugs, particularly suspected Kush.
In the first incident, which occurred at about 3:20 p.m., the Kenema Division Operations Officer, Inspector M. S. Conteh, and his team arrested Wuyeah Kamara at his residence at No. 39 Blama Road in Kenema.
The operation was conducted under the command of the Local Unit Commander, Chief Superintendent of Police Emmanuel Kpulun. Police said that twenty-one wraps of suspected Kush were recovered during the arrest.
Earlier the same day, at about 10:30 a.m., Police Corporal 11546 Koroma Augustine and his team arrested another suspect, Ansu Boima, popularly known as “Governor,” in the I.D.A Section of Kenema. Police sources said that forty-four wraps of suspected Kush were recovered from the suspect during the operation.
Police described the arrests as part of the Kenema Division’s intensified efforts to suppress drug-related criminal activities in the city.
Both suspects are currently in police custody, while investigations continue at the Transnational Organized Crime Unit to establish the full circumstances surrounding the possession of the substances and to determine whether the suspects are linked to a wider distribution network.
The Sierra Leone Police reiterated its commitment to ensuring public safety and combating drug abuse and related crimes. The police also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by providing timely and credible information to help address the growing threat of illegal drugs in communities.
2026.1.30 The High Court in Sierra Leone will hear a Murder case involving Joseph Lamin Steven, a soldier accused of killing his superior officer during a dispute over $100 at the Presidential Lodge, Freetown International Airport, Lungi.
The case was transferred from Freetown Magistrate Court No. 1 on 28 January 2026 after Principal Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah ruled that the matter warranted a High Court trial. The alleged incident occurred on 26 November 2026 and resulted in the death of senior officer Moses Brima Kabba.
Steven is charged under Section 1 of the Offences Against the Person Act, 1861, as amended by the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act, 2021, which prescribes life imprisonment upon conviction.
2026.1.23 Man Arrested For Illegal Entry Into Sierra Leone
A 21-year-old Nigerian national, Ibrahim Bello, is currently in police custody after being charged with illegally entering Sierra Leone without a valid permit, a court in Freetown has been told.
Bello, an unemployed resident of Lagos, Nigeria, is scheduled to appear before Magistrate Salamatu A. Jalloh at the Pademba Road Court No. 8, where he faces two counts under the Non-Citizen (Registration, Immigration, and Expulsion) Act.
The charges include entering Sierra Leone without a permit, contrary to Section 16(1) of the Act of 1964 (Act No. 14 of 1965), and willfully disregarding obligations imposed under Section 18 of the same legislation, contrary to Section 36(c).
According to court records, the accused was apprehended on Monday, 29 December 2025, at Tombo Wharf, off Waterloo in the Western Area of Freetown, while allegedly entering the country without a reasonable explanation for his visit and without the requisite immigration permit.
Police further alleged that Bello deliberately failed to comply with the obligations set out in the Registration, Immigration, and Expulsion Act of 1965.
During the proceedings, the prosecution informed the court that the accused remains in police custody and assured the bench of his availability at the next hearing.
Magistrate Jalloh adjourned the matter to 26 January 2026 for further hearing.
2026.1.22 Two Liberian Women Sentenced to 35 Years Each for Drug Trafficking in Sierra Leone
The High Court in Freetown has sentenced two Liberian nationals, Annet Maflah and Lovetta Maflah, to 35 years’ imprisonment each after they pleaded guilty to charges of drug dealing and transportation in Sierra Leone.
The sentences were handed down by Justice Mark Ngegba following the women’s appearance before the court on four counts of unlawful possession of drugs, contrary to the National Drug Control Act of 2008 and related laws. The charges stemmed from their arrest on November 16, 2025, in Koidu Town, Kono District.
According to court records, the two women were apprehended while transporting a large quantity of tramadol tablets from Kenema to Koidu Town. Upon their arrest, law enforcement officers recovered 2,130 tramadol tablets weighing approximately 20.4 kilograms. The drugs were found in their possession without lawful authority.
Both defendants appeared in court without legal representation and pleaded guilty to all four counts. During mitigation, Lovetta Maflah, who is six months pregnant, appealed to the court for leniency on humanitarian grounds. Annet Maflah did not present any additional plea in mitigation.
In delivering his judgment, Justice Ngegba acknowledged the guilty pleas, noting that they saved the court valuable time and resources. However, he emphasised the serious social consequences of drug trafficking, particularly its impact on young people in Sierra Leone.
“While I acknowledge their circumstances, I will not overlook the fact that drug abuse has devastated many lives in our society,” the judge stated.
Justice Ngegba subsequently sentenced each woman to 35 years’ imprisonment on all four counts, with the sentences to run concurrently. He explained that the penalty reflected the gravity of the offence and the harm caused by the trafficking and distribution of illicit drugs.
The ruling underscores the judiciary’s firm stance on drug-related offences and serves as a warning to individuals involved in the trafficking of controlled substances that such crimes will attract severe punishment under Sierra Leonean law.
A joint team of police officers and the National President of Traditional Healers, Sheku Tarawallie, on Sunday 16th November 2025, arrested Sheku Dabor, a native traditional healer residing at Limba Corner, 4 Mile, Newton, for unlawful possession of firearms and other suspicious items.
The operation formed part of a coordinated random search on native traditional healers across Freetown-West and Freetown-East, following suspicions that some practitioners may be engaged in illicit activities. During the search at Dabor’s residence, a Glock 17 pistol with approximately eight bullets, a communication handset, and a red beret cap were found.
The suspect was immediately taken into custody and is currently assisting the police with further investigations into the matter.
Makeni, Sierra Leone — Friday, 31st October 2025:
A joint team of police personnel from the Makeni and Panlap Divisions, supported by regional headquarters officers, has conducted a massive drug raid across the city of Makeni and its environs, rescuing 123 drug addicts and transferring them to a rehabilitation centre along the Makeni–Kabala Highway.
The operation, led by Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Victor Manfred Williams, was carried out in collaboration with the Mayor of Makeni City Council, Abu Bakarr Lamtail Kamara, and local youths. The initiative targeted users and dealers of harmful substances such as Kush, Tramadol, and Cannabis Sativa.
According to Sahid Arene Kabia (Gaza), Head of the Action for Rehabilitation Centre in Makeni, the move complements the government’s ongoing efforts to combat narcotic drug abuse that continues to destroy the lives of many young Sierra Leoneans. He commended the police, the Mayor, and the youth for their collective effort and called for broader community collaboration in the national fight against drugs.
Addressing the rescued victims at the Rogbaneh Police Station, AIG Williams assured them of the Sierra Leone Police’s continued commitment to protecting lives and helping drug users regain their health through rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Friday, 31st October 2025:
In a renewed effort to combat the growing menace of narcotic drug trafficking and abuse, the Calaba Town Police Division has recorded another major success in its anti-drug operations.
Acting on credible intelligence, the Officer Commanding Calaba Town Police Station, ASP Saccoh Kabbie Kharr, led a team of officers on a targeted raid at Faynkray Street, Calaba Town, where they arrested one Osman Kamara, a resident of Osman Lane in the same community.
During the operation, police recovered six hundred and twenty-eight (628) wraps of dried leaves suspected to be Kush, a synthetic drug wreaking havoc among youths in Sierra Leone
The suspect and the exhibits are currently in police custody as investigations continue.
This latest arrest underscores the Sierra Leone Police’s commitment to intensifying its crackdown on drug-related crimes and ensuring community safety.
2025.10.30 SLP Steps Up War on Drugs — 130 Suspects Arrested in Nationwide Crackdown.
Freetown, Sierra Leone — Wednesday, 29th October 2025:
The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has intensified its nationwide fight against drug trafficking and abuse, resulting in the arrest of 130 suspects and the seizure of large quantities of suspected narcotic substances across the country.
This development was disclosed during the SLP’s weekly press briefing held at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess, Kingtom, where the Head of the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU), Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Michael J. K. Laggah, provided detailed updates on recent operations.
According to Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Dr. John Martin Senesie, the coordinated raids and checkpoint operations conducted between 20th and 26th October 2025 formed part of an ongoing national campaign to dismantle drug supply networks and bring traffickers to justice.
He emphasized that the SLP’s strategy combines strong enforcement with community engagement, adding that while arrests and prosecutions are crucial, public education and collaboration remain equally vital in curbing the growing menace of drug abuse.
The operations yielded significant results, including several high-profile arrests:
1.Kadiatu Barrie Arrested in Makeni
On Monday, 20th October 2025, at No. 7 Lawyer Street, Makeni, one Kadiatu Barrie was arrested with fifty-five (55) tablets of Tramadol and twenty-five (25) wraps of substances suspected to be Kush.
(Case awaiting legal advice.)
2.Abdul Akim Bangura Arrested in Kambia
On Tuesday, 22nd October 2025, at Rogbere Police Checkpoint, Kambia District, Abdul Akim Bangura was intercepted with 1,327 strips of tablets suspected to be Tramadol.
(Case awaiting legal advice.)
3.Guinean National Nabbed with Cocaine at Jendema Border
On Thursday, 23rd October 2025, Laurencia Kollie, a Guinean national, was arrested at the Gendema Customs Police Checkpoint, Pujehun District, with ninety-one (91) pellets of substances suspected to be cocaine.
(Awaiting forensic analysis and report.)
4.Major Kush Seizure in Makeni — Marie Keita in Custody
On Sunday, 26th October 2025, at No. 4 Congo Town Road, Makeni, Marie Keita was arrested with 200 wraps of shredded leaves suspected to be Kush, three half-filled black polythene bags containing similar substances, one half-filled bag containing green leaves suspected to be marshmallow, and one black electronic scale.
(Awaiting forensic analysis and report.)
5.Ibrahim Kamara Arrested in Makeni
On the same day, at No. 4 Campbell Street, Makeni, Ibrahim Kamara was arrested with sixteen (16) wraps of shredded leaves suspected to be Kush.
(Awaiting forensic analysis and report.)
Police data revealed that 174 drug raids were conducted nationwide during the reporting period, resulting in the arrest of 130 suspects. Of these, 51 have been charged to court, while 79 remain under investigation.
AIG Senesie commended all officers involved in the successful operations and reaffirmed the SLP’s commitment to sustaining the war on drugs through both hard and soft approaches.
He explained that the hard approach involves detection, arrest, investigation, and prosecution, while the soft approach focuses on community sensitisation, public education, and media engagement.
The Sierra Leone Police continues to encourage citizens to report drug-related activities within their communities and to support law enforcement efforts aimed at safeguarding public health and safety.
2025.10.25 Confusion as Elderly Woman Arrested With Kush in Makeni Fails to Appear in Court
Controversy has arisen over the status and location of Ya Kadiatu Barrie, an elderly woman arrested in Makeni this week for alleged unlawful possession of narcotic substances, including kush and tramadol.
According to Awareness Times Newspaper, Barrie failed to appear before the Makeni Magistrate Court yesterday, Thursday, October 23, 2025, despite an earlier update from the Police North East Media team stating she was expected to be arraigned.
When contacted for clarification on the suspect’s whereabouts, the Police North East Media team stated that Barrie had been transferred from Makeni in the early morning hours of Thursday and ostensibly sent to Freetown’s Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU).
However, the then-Head of TOCU, Police Chief Superintendent Mohamed Kugba Allieu, contradicted this report during a phone interview, stating that the suspect was “not in Freetown as we speak” as of Thursday afternoon.
The conflicting statements from TOCU and the police media unit have done little to clarify the suspect’s current location or the stage of the investigation.
Police Spokesman and Head of the Police Media and Public Relations Unit, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Brima Kamara, later confirmed that the case had indeed been handed over to TOCU for further investigation, describing it as a routine process for drug-related offenses.
ACP Kamara explained that such transfers from Makeni to Freetown are standard practice and that the determination to charge Barrie will eventually be made by the Law Officers Department once the Case and Enquiry File is submitted.
Regarding the missed court appearance in Makeni, ACP Kamara noted that since the offense cannot be tried summarily, the new Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) permits committal proceedings in or by any Magistrate Court in Sierra Leone.
The official Sierra Leone Police social media accounts have not publicly updated on this specific drug-related matter, despite its wide circulation across various media and blogging platforms.
2025.10.23 Guinean Woman Arrested with 91 Parcels of Suspected Cocaine at Sierra Leone–Liberia Border
In a major success in the fight against transnational drug trafficking, Customs officers of the National Revenue Authority (NRA) stationed at the Jendema Border Crossing between Sierra Leone and Liberia have arrested a Guinean woman in possession of 91 parcels of a substance suspected to be cocaine.
The arrest took place on October 23, 2025, following heightened vigilance and intensified inspection operations led by Mujiru I. I. Kallon, Manager of the Customs Services Department at Jendema Border Crossing Point and Head of Border Operations for Sierra Leone.
The suspect, identified as Laurancia Kolie, holder of Guinean passport number 005017470, was intercepted at the customs checkpoint after reportedly passing through several security controls along the route. During the final inspection by NRA Customs personnel, officers discovered a substantial quantity of suspected narcotics carefully concealed among her personal belongings.
Following the discovery, both the suspect and the seized exhibits were immediately handed over to the Mano River Police Division for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with Sierra Leonean law. Authorities say the seizure underscores the NRA’s unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking, enforcing customs regulations, and safeguarding Sierra Leone’s territorial borders from criminal exploitation.
Commenting on the successful operation, customs officials at Jendema commended their team’s professionalism and vigilance, emphasizing that such actions demonstrate Sierra Leone’s zero-tolerance approach toward illicit drug trade and smuggling activities.
Border management agencies, including the NRA, have reaffirmed their resolve to maintain strict surveillance and enforcement measures across all official entry and exit points, ensuring that drug traffickers and smugglers are intercepted before reaching the country’s interior.
This latest arrest adds to a series of coordinated operations being carried out by security and border enforcement agencies in line with the government’s broader strategy to protect public health, enhance national security, and disrupt cross-border criminal networks. The suspect, Laurancia Kolie, remains in custody while investigations continue to determine the source and destination of the intercepted substance.
2025.10.8 Calaba Town Community Demands Justice After Man Beaten to Death Over Alleged Fuel Theft
Calaba Town Community Residents of the Calaba Town community are calling for justice after a man identified as Alieu was allegedly beaten to death by his co-workers over accusations of stealing a five-gallon container of fuel (locally called “one bata fuel”)
According to eyewitness accounts, Mr. Mohamed Barrie, a resident, said he witnessed the incident around 1:00 a.m. but chose not to intervene out of fear of being implicated. He stated that he saw five people, along with a driver making a total of six suspects involved in the brutal act.
Another resident, Mr. Alie Koroma, who later accompanied some of the suspects to the Waterloo Police Station, said he received a call around 7:00 a.m. from Mr. Sawaneh, the fuel manager, inquiring whether he knew anything about the matter. Unfortunately, by that time, Alieu had already died.
Following the incident, company representatives, including the HR personnel, met at Allentown Junction before proceeding to the Waterloo Police Station, where they provided statements.
The victim’s body was later transported to the 34 Military Hospital in Wilberforce with police assistance.
Mr. Koroma further explained that two companies are linked to the case one reportedly operating under Orange (IPT) and Angel Security. Two of the suspects allegedly work for IPT, while the driver, said to be directly involved, is employed by Angel Security.
He also confirmed that three suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing, and a postmortem examination has been conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
The Chief Executive Officer of Angel Security, Mr. Conteh, reportedly owns the vehicle that was allegedly used during the incident.
Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing as the community and family members continue to demand justice for the late Alieu.
Three people were found dead in a house at Hastings in the Western Rural District of Sierra Leone on September 25th, 2025. The three corpses include a mother, daughter and grandchild.
Reports indicated that the sad incident came to the fore after a relative of the deceased (a son to the mother), who went to visit them, found out that they were dead.
Family, friends and community members are still in amazed as the cause of the death is still unknown.
As emotions remain high among the community, final respect were given to the corpses before they were finally laid to rest at the Hastings Cemetery, Western Rural District.
As some members of the community were left asking questions, police are currently investigating the incident and promised to provide update as soon as possible.
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