By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has announced a series of major law enforcement breakthroughs, including the arrest of suspected armed robbers, the interception of a large cache of narcotics, the seizure of thousands of weapons and the declaration of popular musician Natasha Beckley as wanted in connection with the production of illicit drugs.
The update was delivered at the SLP’s weekly Press Briefing on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, held at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess in Kingtom, Freetown. The briefing, led by Director of Operations, AIG John Matine Senesie, outlined recent security successes and ongoing investigations aimed at tackling rising crime across the country.
According to the Police, four suspected armed robbers were arrested and found in possession of a pistol and burglary tools. ACP, Allieu Jalloh, explained that the suspects are believed to be connected to a string of robberies that took place in the Western Area between July and August this year.
“These arrests represent a significant step in breaking the network of criminal gangs that have been terrorizing residents,” ACP Allieu Jalloh stated. “Investigations are underway and the public can be assured that all those who are found guilty will face the full force of the law.”
The SLP emphasized that armed robbery remains a serious concern in urban areas, with gangs often targeting homes and businesses. Authorities noted that continued vigilance, community cooperation and intelligence-led policing are central to reducing such crimes.
In one of the most striking developments, police intercepted a shipping container carrying 4,269 daggers and swords. The weapons, imported under suspicious circumstances, were discovered during a joint inspection exercise.
AIG John Matine Senesie described the seizure as a proactive measure to safeguard public safety. “These weapons, if released onto the streets, would have posed a grave threat to national security. Our timely action has prevented their circulation,” he said.
Authorities revealed that individuals linked to the consignment are currently being questioned to establish whether the weapons were intended for commercial use, criminal activity or other undisclosed purposes. The SLP warned that the illegal importation of arms and dangerous weapons will not be tolerated.
Perhaps the most sensational revelation from the police briefing was the declaration of Sierra Leonean musician Natasha Beckley as a wanted person. The SLP linked her to the alleged production and distribution of the synthetic drug known locally as Kush, which has devastated communities and left many young people addicted.
The police reported that on June 13, 2025, officers raided a property at No. 8 Campbell Lane, Fourah Bay Road, Freetown. During the operation, investigators discovered materials believed to be used in drug processing. Items recovered included:
- Nine polythene bags containing shredded leaves suspected to be marshmallow, a plant ingredient in Kush production,
- Five one-gallon containers labeled “Acetone,” a chemical precursor,
- Three gas masks, and
- Five weighing scales believed to have been used for drug sales.
Despite repeated attempts to apprehend her, Natasha Beckley has so far evaded capture. The SLP is urging members of the public to provide credible information that could lead to her arrest.
The declaration has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, where Natasha Beckley has been a prominent figure. Her alleged involvement in narcotics highlights the growing concern about the influence of the drug trade beyond traditional criminal circles.
The SLP stressed that those operations are part of a wider campaign to strengthen law enforcement and protect citizens. Officials highlighted the role of intelligence-led policing, surveillance and community partnerships in crime prevention.
“Public cooperation is essential,” AIG John Matine Senesie noted. “We encourage citizens to share information, remain vigilant and continue working with us to ensure peace and security.”
The Police further assured the public of their commitment to transparency and accountability. Regular Press Briefings, they said, will continue to serve as an avenue for open communication between law enforcement and citizens.
The revelations come at a time when Sierra Leone is grappling with the twin challenges of rising urban crime and the spread of narcotic substances, particularly Kush. Community leaders, Civil Society Groups and Government Agencies have all expressed concern about the social and economic toll of the drug epidemic.
The seizure of over 4,000 weapons and the crackdown on suspected drug networks underscore the scale of the threats facing national security. For many Sierra Leoneans, the police operations signal both the gravity of the challenge and the resolve of law enforcement agencies to confront it head-on.
As investigations continue, the public will be closely watching how the cases unfold, particularly the manhunt for Natasha Beckley, which has become one of the most high-profile pursuits in recent years.
