The Government of Sierra Leone has announced that security forces have seized a large consignment of bomb-making materials and Illegal drugs with 7 Individuals in Custody.

According to a Press Release from the Ministry of Information, in early March 2023, intelligence officials in Sierra Leone uncovered a plot involving individuals suspected of importing bomb-making materials into Sierra Leone. A special operation was launched to identify and disrupt their activities.

After months of surveillance, a joint operation by intelligence, military, and police forces was carried out on Sunday, July 7, 2024, targeting several locations in and around the Western Area. The operation was a success, resulting in the seizure of various bomb-making materials, including 12.5 kg empty gas cylinders, High-grade TNT (Trinitrotoluene), Detonators, Firing devices, Timers, and other bomb-making components disguised as powdered laundry detergents and soap.

The Press Release further reveals that on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, a further search at the residence of suspect Hussein Antar led to the discovery of 7,847,100 Captagon pills. These pills, a dangerous and addictive amphetamine-type stimulant, were concealed in bedroom refrigerators and air- conditioners. Captagon is known to be widely used by ISIS and fighters in Syria. The estimated street value of the seized drugs is $94,155,200.

The following individuals have been arrested and are assisting the police with investigations: 1.Hussein Antar 2. Jamal Antar 3. Ibrahim Bashiru Kamara 4. Samuel Marah 5. Abdul Aziz Kamara 6. Alieu Kamara 7. Ackmed Bangura.

The Government urge anyone with information related to these activities to contact the Sierra Leone police.