Customs officials and border security agencies remain vigilant in their efforts to combat drug trafficking and illicit trade along the Sierra Leone-Liberia border.

In two separate incidents earlier this month, multiple arrests were made, further underscoring the determination of authorities to protect the integrity of the border.

On September 7th, customs staff arrested two individuals attempting to cross into Sierra Leone with two boxes containing items suspected to be the controlled substance Tramadol. The suspects were handed over to the Mano River Police Division for further investigation.

Just six days later, on September 13th, a coordinated operation involving customs officials and various state security agencies intercepted a consignment at one of the numerous illegal crossing points between Liberia and Sierra Leone. The joint task force seized eight cartons of cigarettes marked “for sale in Sierra Leone” that were being smuggled out of the country. Further inspection revealed that one of the boxes contained seven packets of a wrapped substance, each weighing one kilogram, suspected to be cannabis sativa.

All contraband items are currently in police custody as investigations continue.

Customs Services Manager Mujiru I.I. Kallon commended the proactive efforts of the Customs Supervisor in Jendema, Abdul Malik Jalloh, for ensuring the successful arrests. He extended his gratitude to all security personnel involved, emphasizing the importance of continued vigilance in safeguarding the border.