Security forces stationed at Gbalamuya Checkpoint together with the National Revenue Authority’s (NRA) Anti-smuggling Unit intercepted and seized a large consignment of explosive devices.

The explosive devices was handed over to Lieutenant-Colonel John Kainessie, the Commanding Officer of the 11th Infantry Battalion in Kambia for protective custody.

The handing over of the devices took place at the Old Customs Building at Gbalamuya in the presence of key security personnel including the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of the police, Superintendent Murana Kamara and the Kambia District Coordinator of the Office of National Security (ONS), Joshua Bockarie.

The explosive devices have been safely stored at the 11th Battalion Headquarters while the police, through the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) have launched an investigation into the matter.

The seizure represents a crucial step in the ongoing crackdown against illegal activities at the Gbalamuya Customs Border and highlights the collaborative efforts of the NRA Anti-smuggling Unit, the police and ONS.

Gbalamuya Checkpoint is the major border crossing between Sierra Leone and Guinea. Everyday, hundreds of people from both countries use the route to transport goods. But some local people have called on authorities to ensure they upgrade security at the crossing.