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The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) has issued a 30-day ultimatum to the owners of wrecked and stranded vessels along the country’s coastline to remove them or face government seizure.
The notice, published on February 10, 2026, specifically targets three semi-industrial fishing vessels stranded on the popular Aberdeen and Lumley Beach shores.
Citing the Merchant Shipping Act of 2003, the SLMA has identified the vessels as the FV Taiba, FV Sky 777, and FV Tandeen. A recently conducted joint technical and environmental assessment determined that these wrecks pose significant risks to public safety and threaten the tourism and hospitality sectors along the vital beach corridor.
The Administration has granted a strict compliance window running from February 9 to March 12, 2026. During this period, owners and individuals with financial ties to the vessels must submit verifiable proof of ownership and complete the removal of the ships.
“Failure to comply shall result in such vessels being deemed unclaimed wrecks,” the notice warned.
If the deadline passes without action, the SLMA’s Receiver of Wrecks will officially classify the boats as abandoned. The government will then step in to facilitate their “safe and environmentally responsible removal” to protect the coastline.
The SLMA emphasized its commitment to maritime security and environmental protection, assuring the public that these measures are part of a broader effort to clear wrecks from Sierra Leonean waters, particularly around the Freetown Peninsula.
Stakeholders seeking further clarification can contact the administration via email at [email protected].
