Police in Sierra Leone have arrested 42 individuals—23 men and 19 women—suspected of operating overseas scams and engaging in money laundering activities.

The arrests were made during a targeted raid in Hastings, Eastern Freetown, following intelligence that a group linked to Qnet, a company long accused of running Ponzi-style schemes, was operating illegally in the area.

At a press briefing at the Police Officers Mess in Kingtom, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Francis Brima Mendy confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody at Grafton Police Station pending further investigations.

“These individuals were apprehended after credible intelligence indicated they were engaged in suspicious activities under the guise of foreign employment opportunities and investment schemes,” AIG Mendy stated. “We are taking this very seriously.”

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Qnet has faced controversy in Sierra Leone and across the region for allegedly defrauding unsuspecting citizens with promises of high-paying overseas jobs and lucrative investment returns. Victims often pay large sums to join the network, only to find they have been duped.

While police confirmed the group’s connection to Qnet, AIG Mendy cautioned that it is still too early to determine whether all 42 individuals are active participants or if some may be victims or coerced recruits. The matter has been referred to the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) for further investigation.

AIG Mendy praised local residents for providing timely information and encouraged continued collaboration between the public and law enforcement. “This success wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the community,” he said. “The fight against organized crime is a shared responsibility, and we call on citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.”

The Sierra Leone Police reiterated their commitment to tackling cybercrime, financial fraud, and transnational criminal networks, emphasizing that no effort will be spared in protecting the public and upholding the rule of law.

Authorities are urging anyone who may have been affected by scams to come forward and assist with ongoing investigations.