Waterloo Resident Arrested with Suspected Cannabis at Mile 38 Checkpoint
Kanja Sesay The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) have arrested a man and seized two parcels of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis during a routine stop-and-search operation at the Mile 38 Checkpoint on Thursday, October 8, 2026.
The operation, led by Superintendent Foday Sorie Fofanah, resulted in the arrest of John Koroma, a resident of No. 14 York Road, Waterloo, after officers reportedly discovered the suspected substance in his possession.
According to the police account, officers stationed at the checkpoint stopped a vehicle with registration number AYY 823, driven by Mohamed Sheriff, a resident of Port Loko.
During the search, officers allegedly discovered two parcels containing dried leaves suspected to be cannabis in the possession of Koroma, who was travelling as a passenger.
Koroma was subsequently arrested, while the suspected substance was seized as evidence.
Police confirmed that the suspect and the exhibits remain in custody as investigations continue.
The substance has not yet been confirmed through laboratory analysis, and no criminal conviction has been recorded against the suspect.
The arrest comes amid ongoing efforts by Sierra Leonean authorities to combat drug trafficking and the movement of suspected illegal substances along major highways.
The Mile 38 Checkpoint serves as an important security point along a major road corridor connecting Freetown with other parts of the country.
Police stop-and-search operations at such checkpoints are intended to identify suspected criminal activities, intercept prohibited substances and strengthen public security.
In August 2026, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), working with police partners, reportedly intercepted a vehicle carrying suspected narcotics in Kambia District, resulting in several arrests.
The government has also been pursuing drug-control measures aimed at strengthening enforcement, improving border and checkpoint security, and supporting community awareness and rehabilitation initiatives.
Police investigations into the Mile 38 incident remain ongoing, with authorities expected to establish the nature of the seized substance and determine whether criminal charges are warranted.
Koroma remains a suspect, and any decision to prosecute will depend on the findings of the investigation and the available evidence.
The arrest highlights continued police efforts to intercept suspected illegal drugs and strengthen security along Sierra Leone’s major transport routes.