Sierra Leone Police Investigates Illegal Possession of Firearms by Foreign Nationals

The Sierra Leone Police are currently conducting an investigation into the alleged illegal possession of firearms and ammunition in Sierra Leone.

The individuals involved in the case are Mr. Bamah, believed to be a United States citizen, and ‘Adeyourmi Ogumefo Ademokalay,’ an alleged Nigerian national.

On June 7th of this year, upon Mr. Bamah’s arrival from the United States on SN Brussels at Freetown International Airport in Lungi, three pistols and one hundred rounds of ammunition were discovered in his luggage. Mr. Bamah claimed to own a security company in Sierra Leone called Flex Security Company, for which he stated he was importing the weapons.

During a press conference held on June 9th, Mr. Bamah was questioned in the presence of journalists regarding whether he possessed a permit for the weapons. He admitted to not having a permit.

The Director of Crime Services, Commissioner Ibrahim Joseph Lahai, stated that the police will continue their investigations into the matter.

Accroding to Politico newspaper the media and communication team of the US Embassy in Freetown stated that they did not have any information to share at that time.

Explaining the procedures for importing arms and ammunition into the country, Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mohamed Brima Jah, Director of Operations, stated that the Small Arms Commission must issue a permit. Upon the arrival of the weapons in the country, the police officers at the airport take possession of them and transport them to the commission’s office in Freetown. There, necessary processes and procedures are followed before the weapons are handed over to their owners.

In addition to Mr. Bamah’s case, the police arrested the alleged Nigerian national at a checkpoint in Portee, Eastern Freetown, on June 6th at around 12 am. The suspect was found in possession of a pistol, 15 rounds of ammunition, a dagger, combat fatigues, and other dangerous materials in a locally known rickshaw called a Keke. Further investigation at the suspect’s residence uncovered additional harmful materials.

The police also informed the press about the arrest of a group of nine individuals led by one Sheriff at the Fallah Checkpoint in Bo. These individuals forcibly passed security checks with an unlicensed vehicle, carrying ten assorted ID cards, a pistol, daggers, pepper spray, and other dangerous materials. They are currently assisting the police with their investigations.

Despite these incidents, the police assured the public of their readiness and vigilance in ensuring the security of people’s lives and properties during the elections. Checkpoints will be established at various locations across the country.

The Director of Operations advised the public to be tolerant and law-abiding, emphasizing that Sierra Leone is governed by the rule of law, and non-compliance would result in consequences.