By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Office of National Security (ONS) has informed the public that Sierra Leone’s Security Sector has commenced preliminary investigations following recent international media reports concerning a cocaine seizure by Spanish Police involving a vessel that reportedly departed Freetown on 22 April 2026.
According to a Press Release issued by the ONS on Thursday 7th May 2026, the vessel, registered in the Comoros Islands, was intercepted by Spanish authorities while reportedly en route to the Mediterranean.
The release noted that despite the widespread media reports surrounding the incident, both the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) and the Sierra Leone Police have not yet received any official communication from Spanish authorities regarding the matter.
However, the Security Sector emphasized that it has already initiated preliminary inquiries and inter-agency assessments aimed at establishing the facts surrounding the vessel, including its voyage history and movements through Sierra Leone’s ports.
“The Security Sector has already begun preliminary inquiries and inter-agency assessments to establish the facts surrounding the vessel, its voyage history and port movements,” the statement noted.
Authorities further disclosed that investigations are ongoing and that all necessary verification processes will be undertaken to determine the full circumstances surrounding the alleged drug trafficking case.
The Office of National Security reassured both the public and international partners that the issue is being treated with utmost seriousness and professionalism, stressing Sierra Leone’s continued commitment to combating transnational organized crime and maintaining international security standards.
“The Security Sector assures the public and international partners that this matter is being treated seriously and professionally,” the release stated, adding that Sierra Leone remains committed to upholding international security standards.
The ONS also encouraged members of the public with credible information relating to the matter to cooperate with investigators by contacting the Head of the Criminal Investigation Department on +232 78583069.
The development comes amid growing international concerns over drug trafficking networks operating across international waters and highlights the importance of stronger regional and global security cooperation in tackling organized crime.
