The Sierra Leone Police have confirmed the discovery of an abandoned vessel resembling a customized mini-submarine along the Black Johnson coastal area in the early hours of January 18, 2025.

According to a press release dated January 20, the discovery followed a tip-off that led the Naval Wing of the Security Sector to deploy personnel to Yenkain Beach, where the vessel was found and secured.

The vessel was subsequently towed to the Military Navy Base at Murray Town for detailed examination. On January 19, between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., a joint security team comprising various institutions conducted a comprehensive search of the vessel’s three main compartments, including the captain’s cabin. The search involved cutting through sections of the vessel to ensure thorough inspection.

No items or materials of security concern were found during the operation, officials confirmed. The vessel has been handed over to the Marine Wing of the Sierra Leone Police for further examination, including forensic swab analysis. The results are expected to aid on-going investigations.

Authorities assured the public of their dedication to maintaining security and order, emphasizing their commitment to providing a safe environment.