The Ministry of Internal Affairs issued a press release on Monday, June 5th, 2023, debunking the claims circulating on social media about an alleged influx of Burkinabe mercenaries at Sierra Rutile.

In response to these social media posts, the Ministry, in collaboration with state intelligence agencies, conducted thorough investigations into the allegations. The results of the investigations are as follows:

The Burkinabe drivers are highly skilled heavy-duty truck drivers contracted by SIBAO GROUP LTD and are currently working at the Sierra Rutile Mines.

Prior to their entry into Sierra Leone, these individuals went through security screening at the Gbalamuya border post. The Sierra Leone Immigration Department, the National Revenue Authority (NRA), and other security agencies conducted due diligence.

The Burkinabe heavy-duty truck drivers are stationed at the Sierra Rutile Mines, which is their intended destination.

Upon their arrival in Sierra Leone, concerns were raised by the public, accusing the Burkinabes of being hired mercenaries against the Sierra Leonean government. As a result, the state intelligence and security agencies promptly apprehended all the alleged Burkinabe mercenaries and conducted rigorous security screenings. However, no evidence linking them to the allegations was found, leading to their release without charge.

In accordance with the Government’s Local Content Policy, the Burkinabe heavy-duty truck drivers are expected to train Sierra Leonean drivers who will eventually replace them.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs, responsible for the country’s internal security, would like to further inform the public that the Burkinabe heavy-duty truck drivers were legally brought in as foreign workers by SIBAO GROUP LTD, a subcontractor of the Sierra Rutile Mining Company.

Furthermore, investigations and gathered intelligence have not found any connection between these individuals and any mercenary group seeking to destabilize Sierra Leone or interfere in the upcoming elections. Nonetheless, the relevant security and intelligence agencies will continue to monitor and surveil individuals of security interest entering or residing in Sierra Leone.

Meanwhile, the public is kindly requested to remain calm and carry on with their normal activities as the security and intelligence agencies continue to monitor the security situation in the country and the wider sub-region.