In a decisive move to combat drug trafficking and other cross-border crimes, Sierra Leone’s security leadership has intensified surveillance and coordination efforts along the Jendema border.

The initiative follows a high-level stakeholders meeting chaired by the National Security Coordinator, Mr. Abdulai Caulker, under the Office of National Security (ONS).

Delivering a message from His Excellency President Brig. (Rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Mr. Caulker emphasized that drug trafficking poses a serious threat to Sierra Leone’s international image and national stability. He disclosed that four CCTV cameras have been installed at strategic points along the border to enhance real-time monitoring and ensure swift operational responses.

As part of broader security reforms, a new Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) has been rolled out to guide uniformed operations across all border entry points. Mr. Caulker urged personnel and local leaders to remain vigilant, collaborate closely, and provide timely intelligence to curb illicit trade.

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Strengthening the institutional presence at the frontier, the Executive Director of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Andrew Jaiah Kaikai, announced the permanent deployment of NDLEA officers to Jendema. He confirmed that three trained officers have already been stationed and equipped to intensify anti-drug enforcement.

Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Mr. David Fortune, described drug trafficking as a “grave national danger,” calling for coordinated patrols and stronger integrity systems between Sierra Leone and Liberia.

Ambassador Eddie S. Massally echoed the need for regional collaboration, clarifying that drugs intercepted in Liberia should not be attributed to Sierra Leone. He also noted policy gaps around transshipment routes and praised border officers for their professionalism.

Representatives from key institutions, including the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Central Intelligence and Security Agency (CISA), Immigration Department, and Sierra Leone Police, pledged renewed inter-agency cooperation. NRA’s John Amara reaffirmed support for the new SoP and announced upcoming customs training programs focused on drug detection, while CISA officials cautioned against organized crimes linked to drug cartels.

Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Amara Idara Bangura, revealed plans to recruit 500 military veterans to strengthen border patrol and surveillance capacity. He emphasized vigilance along both formal and informal crossing points, underscoring unity and patriotism as vital to securing national borders.

Paramount Chief Mustapha J. Massaquoi assured full community cooperation, promising to implement the resolutions reached at the meeting and mobilize local support in the anti-drug campaign.

Closing the session, Mr. Caulker commended the collective resolve of security agencies and community leaders, reaffirming that only through joint action, accountability, and trust can Sierra Leone defeat drug trafficking and safeguard its international reputation.