Major Deportation Wave: 42 Sierra Leoneans Repatriated from America
The head of Sierra Leone’s Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU), Superintendent Mohamed Kugba Allieu, has confirmed that between February and September 2025, a total of 42 Sierra Leoneans were deported from the United States of America.
Superintendent Allieu made the statement during the regular police press briefing at the Police Officers Mess in Kingston, on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.
This wave of deportations underscores ongoing efforts by authorities to tackle issues related to illegal migration, organized crime, and national security concerns.
Illegal migration contravenes several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), most notably SDG 10, which seeks to reduce inequality within and among countries.
Often involving vulnerable populations seeking better opportunities without proper documentation, illegal migration can lead to exploitation and social exclusion. Moreover, it can undermine SDG 16, which promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions, by challenging the rule of law and border security.
Addressing illegal migration is part of broader efforts to promote legal and safe migration pathways, ensuring that migration contributes positively to sustainable development without exacerbating inequalities or compromising national security.
Superintendent Allieu stated that he would not disclose the names of the deportees to prevent stigmatization.
According to him, the primary reason for these deportations is illegal entry. “Based on the records we’ve received, we may likely receive up to 2,000 deportees from the US before December this year,” he revealed.
He also noted that some deportees are unable to trace their families in Sierra Leone because they left a long time ago. For those individuals, the authorities require sureties to sign on their behalf. Once this is done, they can be counseled and released.
Superintendent Allieu emphasized that there is no criminal offense associated with being deported; however, sureties are necessary before their release.
He concluded by encouraging Sierra Leoneans to love and take pride in their home country.