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Milla Group Unveils Festive Promo to Support Weddings, Church Events and Family Gatherings

Milla Group
Milla Group

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Milla Group, one of Sierra Leone’s most trusted names in high-quality plastic manufacturing, has rolled out an exciting Christmas Sale Promotion, offering customers unmatched value during the festive season. Under the special offer, anyone who purchases 100 chairs—across any model—will receive two free round tables valued at NLe1,200.

The promotion has already generated strong interest among event planners, churches, businesses, hospitality providers and households preparing for weddings, end-of-year programs and community celebrations.

According to Milla Group, customers can choose from any of the company’s three top-selling chair types—Classic, Deluxe, and Premium XL. Buyers may mix the models or purchase a single type, yet still qualify for the two free tables, giving customers maximum flexibility and convenience.

The round tables offered are part of Milla Group’s signature collection, known for their durability, stable design, and suitability for both indoor and outdoor events. The company notes that the promotion is meant to help customers save significantly at a time when demand for furniture typically surges.

A spokesperson for the company described the initiative as a token of gratitude to Sierra Leoneans. “This Christmas Sale is our way of saying thank you to the public for choosing Milla products throughout the year. We want to make it easier and more affordable for people to prepare for their festive events with reliable, top-quality furniture,” the spokesperson said.

The promotion is available nationwide at all Milla Group outlets, with customers encouraged to take advantage of the offer while stock lasts. Retail points have already transformed into festive hubs, decorated with Christmas ornaments, promotional banners and attractive displays showcasing the discounted bundles.

As the holiday season approaches, Milla Group reiterates its commitment to providing affordable, stylish and durable plastic products for every Sierra Leonean home and business.

It is worth noting that Milla Group and Pee Cee & Sons (PCS) operate as part of PC Holdings, one of Sierra Leone’s largest indigenous conglomerates, with strong footprints in manufacturing, agriculture (including onions, oils and soap production), and nationwide distribution. Together with subsidiaries like Jolaks, the group remains a pillar of local industrialization, import substitution, job creation, and agribusiness transformation—supported through strategic partnerships, including engagements with the IFC.

With this latest Christmas Sale, Milla Group once again reinforces its reputation as an innovative, customer-focused industry leader dedicated to serving Sierra Leone with quality and value.

Alhaji Alex Jalloh Hunted by Poro Secret Society as Deadly Manhunt Intensifies

Alhaji Alex Jalloh
Alhaji Alex Jalloh

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The life of Alhaji Alex Jalloh, a young man from Magbema Chiefdom in Kambia District, Northern Sierra Leone, is now in severe danger as members of the Poro Secret Society intensify a coordinated manhunt to capture him alive and forcefully initiate him. The threat against him escalated sharply after developments linked to his late father’s position in the society and the death of his uncle, Abdul Aziz Jalloh, a senior figure in the Poro Secret Society, who died on 10 June 2025.

Family members explain that the root of the crisis lies in tradition: Alhaji Alex Jalloh is the first son in his father’s biological line, making him the automatic successor to any role his father once held within the Poro Secret Society. His late father, who died years ago, had occupied a significant and respected position within the society, a responsibility that custom dictates must pass directly to his eldest biological son.

For years, Alhaji Alex Jalloh’s fragile health and his absence from the community delayed this expectation. During that period, his father’s biological brother, Abdul Aziz Jalloh, temporarily assumed the responsibilities associated with their father’s former role. His leadership created a buffer that shielded Alex from immediate pressure.

But when Abdul Aziz Jalloh died on 10 June 2025, that buffer was abruptly removed. Family sources told this news medium that senior Poro Secret Society members immediately renewed their focus on Alhaji Alex Jalloh, insisting that he must inherit the role because he is the first biological son in his father’s lineage.

According to what was gathered, by this time, Alhaji Alex Jalloh was already out of the country.

The pressure quickly shifted to his family. According to close friends, eyewitnesses and family members, Poro Secret Society elders intensified their intimidation of those he left behind. The threats became so severe that his biological brothers, Ibrahim Jalloh and Mohamed Jalloh, were forced to flee the settlement to avoid being abducted or used as leverage to force Alex out of hiding. Their escape left behind only women, who now endure constant intimidation.

Eyewitnesses from Magbema Chiefdom describe repeated nighttime visits by Poro Secret Society members demanding that the family reveal the whereabouts of Alhaji Alex Jalloh or “face consequences.” The women have endured threats, surveillance, insults and relentless fear.

One sister, speaking through tears, said, “We do not know where Alhaji Alex Jalloh is. But the threats keep coming. They say they want him at any cost.”

Friends close to Alex reveal that his outspoken condemnation of the Poro Secret Society—especially its practices of ritual killings, human sacrifice, the drinking of human blood and the consumption of human body parts—is a major reason he is being hunted. He vowed never to submit to rituals involving violence or death, a stance that deeply angered the society’s elders.

Eyewitness accounts confirm that the Poro Secret Society has activated its networks across several districts in search of him. Family members say the society has vowed never to relent until he is found, raising fears that any attempt to capture him could result in his death.

The ongoing manhunt for Alhaji Alex Jalloh, the disappearance of his brothers and the continued harassment of his family has now become a serious human rights concern. Everyone who spoke to this medium—including family members, eyewitnesses and close acquaintances—affirmed that the threat facing him is real, coordinated and immediate.

 

Pee Cee & Sons Spreads Festive Cheer with Cash Top-Ups and Gift Packages Across Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Pee Cee & Sons has broadened its festive promotion nationwide, offering attractive incentives to customers throughout the 2025/2026 holiday period. This year’s campaign features an automatic 1% cash bonus for anyone receiving NLe 22,000 and above, with the extra amount added instantly at the counter. The company assures that there are no complicated procedures or hidden conditions, making the process seamless at a time when households rely heavily on international financial support.

With its combination of monetary rewards and essential household items, the Pee Cee & Sons Holiday Promo is positioned to provide comfort, relief and festive cheer to families across Sierra Leone during the Christmas season.

The ongoing December Promo 2025/2026 offers generous rewards to customers collecting MoneyGram, Western Union, and Ria transfers. Running from 1st December 2025 to 3rd January 2026, the promotion is active across all Pee Cee & Sons branches, reinforcing the Bureau’s longstanding support for families who depend on remittances nationwide.

Beyond the cash top-up, Pee Cee & Sons is distributing a wide range of branded nutritional and household essentials as part of its Christmas reward package. Items include:
• Padi Evaporated Milk
• Padi Cocoa
• Padi Sweetened Condensed Milk
• Royale Mayonnaise
• Sweet Padi Seasoning Cube
• Padi Vegetable Cooking Oil
• Padi Malted Drink
• Padi Tea Leaf
• Padi 5kg Rice
• And other popular consumer products

These items will be available while stocks last, offering meaningful value to customers during the festive period.

To ensure nationwide accessibility, Pee Cee has designated several collection centres in Freetown and across the provinces, allowing customers to conveniently redeem both their remittances and promo rewards.

Freetown Locations:
59 Wellington Street · 16 Goderich Road, Lumley · 31 Guard Street · 19 Fourah Bay Road · 10 Sani Abacha Street · 24 City Road, Portee · 9 Krootown Road · 32A Wilkinson Road · 53 Abacha Street

Provincial Locations:
76 Kainkordu Road, Kono · 5 Palmer Street, Kabala · 54 Dambala Road, Bo · 39 Hanga Road, Kenema · 9A Liverpool Street, Waterloo · 29 Rogbaneh Road, Makeni · 137 Airport Ferry Road, Lungi · Lengor’s Compound, Kailahun · 35 IDA Road, Kambia

Management states that the December Promo reflects Pee Cee & Sons’ deep appreciation for customer loyalty, especially during a season when many Sierra Leoneans depend on relatives abroad to meet increased household needs. The company reaffirmed its commitment to providing quick, secure and customer-focused remittance services nationwide.

Members of the public seeking additional information are encouraged to visit any Pee Cee & Sons branch or call the customer service line at 088076539.

Shalimar Trading Ongoing 2025 Holiday Raffle Offers HLX 125 as Grand Prize

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The winning ticket for Shalimar Trading’s 2025 Holiday Raffle will be selected during a live draw on AYV Television, where the company will unveil the lucky customer who will take home the premium HLX 125 motorbike.

Shalimar Trading has rolled out its nationwide festive raffle campaign, giving customers across Sierra Leone an exciting opportunity to win a brand-new HLX 125 as the year draws to a close. The promotion, now active in all company outlets, runs until 22 December 2025 and is attracting riders, transport operators and individual buyers eager to secure a chance at the grand prize.

Since the announcement, Shalimar outlets have reported increased foot traffic, higher sales and strong customer engagement as buyers rush to participate before the deadline. The company assures customers of a transparent raffle process and consistent product availability throughout the campaign.

With excitement steadily rising ahead of the final draw, Shalimar Trading is encouraging customers to take advantage of the promotion early. As the campaign progresses, the company continues to demonstrate its commitment to customer empowerment and service excellence; closing 2025 with a strong message of gratitude, support and community partnership.

Under the raffle rules, every motorbike or tricycle (kekeh) purchased during the promotional period automatically qualifies as an entry into the draw. Each transaction counts as one ticket, increasing customers’ chances of winning the reliable HLX 125, widely celebrated for its strength, low fuel consumption and suitability for commercial transportation.

Shalimar Trading has long cemented its reputation as a trusted supplier of durable motorbikes, tricycles and spare parts, maintaining a robust customer base nationwide. With its extensive distribution network and dependable after-sales support, the company remains a key player in Sierra Leone’s transport sector, particularly for riders who rely on motorbikes for their daily income.

According to Management, the End-of-Year Raffle is a gesture of appreciation aimed at rewarding loyal customers and supporting communities during the festive season; a period often marked by increased economic pressure. The company emphasized that many Sierra Leoneans depend on motorbikes and tricycles for their livelihoods and initiatives like this raffle help boost earning potential and uplift households.

 

Guests From US, South Africa and Around the World to Attend 2025 Salone Civic Festival

Sierra Leone is preparing to host one of its most significant civic engagements yet, as the 2025 Salone Civic Festival draws esteemed thinkers, policymakers and global development leaders from across the world. Organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education in partnership with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, the three-day festival is set to take place at Youyi Building in Freetown and is expected to be the largest national civic convening of its kind.

The festival aims to deepen civic consciousness, strengthen democratic participation and foster knowledge-sharing on issues central to Sierra Leone’s development ambitions. With renowned speakers and experts scheduled to deliver keynote speeches, lead high-level panel discussions and conduct practical masterclasses, the gathering is poised to become a landmark moment for national civic engagement.

A major highlight will be the participation of guests from the United States, South Africa, Europe and Asia, bringing with them decades of international experience in governance, public health, education, activism and sustainable development.

Among the distinguished guests is Dr. Mavuso, a celebrated veteran of South Africa’s liberation struggle who worked alongside Nelson Mandela. A former senior public servant and leader of the ANC Veterans’ Movement, Dr. Mavuso is widely admired for his principled leadership and is often described as the “conscience of South Africa.” His presence is expected to enrich conversations on democracy, civic responsibility and nation-building.

Also featured is Dr. Thoai D. Ngo, a globally recognized scientist whose research spans public health, population dynamics and social equity. His contribution will provide critical insights into how data, science and policy can intersect to drive human-centered development.

Daniel Obst, CEO of AFS, the world’s largest intercultural and student exchange organization with more than 50,000 volunteers in 99 countries, will bring a global perspective to youth empowerment, civic participation and cross-cultural dialogue.

Renowned psychologist, humanitarian and author Dr. Judy Kuriansky will also grace the event, adding depth to discussions on mental health, community resilience and global cooperation.

The festival will further benefit from the expertise of Stefania Giannini, UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Education, who will speak on global strategies to advance the Education 2030 agenda and strengthen learning systems in developing countries.

Organizers say the 2025 Salone Civic Festival is designed not only to inspire but also to provide practical tools for civic engagement, leadership and community development. Students, professionals, civil society organizations, policymakers and the general public are encouraged to participate.

Registration is now officially open and interested individuals can sign up for the various sessions and panel discussions via the festival’s official website: https://civicfest.moice.gov.sl/panel-discussions/.

With its lineup of influential global guests and its focus on transformative dialogue, the Salone Civic Festival is set to mark a defining moment in Sierra Leone’s civic and democratic journey.

Magistrate Daboh Commits Four to High Court as Sierra Leone Tightens Drug Crackdown

Magistrate Hadiru Daboh

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

A decisive move aimed at accelerating the prosecution of drug-related offences in Sierra Leone saw Principal Magistrate Hadiru Daboh of the Kenema Magistrate Court on 3 December 2025 commit four defendants to the High Court for trial on charges of possession and use of prohibited drugs, contrary to Section 8(a) of the National Drugs Control Act No. 10 of 2008.

The accused persons, Mariama Kebbie, a trader from Dauda Town; Lahai Sannoh a diamond miner from Konia Village; Joseph Koroma, a farmer from Kpetama 2 Village; and Vandy Boima, a farmer from Tawahun Village, were each charged with various offences involving Kush and Cannabis Sativa. All four hail from communities within the Kenema District.

According to the particulars of offence presented in court, on 6 November 2025, Mariama Kebbie was found in possession of forty (40) wraps of Kush at Dauda Town. Similarly, on 24 November 2025, Lahai Sannoh was apprehended with fourteen (14) wraps of Kush at Konia Kpidima Village in the Lower Bambara Chiefdom. On 25 November 2025, Joseph Koroma was discovered to be in possession of both a quantity of Cannabis Sativa and its seeds at Kpetama 2 Village. In another case, on 4 November 2025, Vandy Boima was arrested at Tawahun Village with fifty-nine (59) wraps of Kush.

Following a thorough review of the prosecution’s evidence, Principal Magistrate, Hadiru Daboh, ruled that the State had successfully established a prima facie case against the accused. He stated that the nature of the offences and the clear evidentiary record left him with no alternative but to commit the matters to the High Court for full trial.

Visibly concerned, Principal Magistrate Hadiru Daboh lamented the devastating impact of Kush and other narcotic substances on the country’s youth population. He referenced the recent directive issued by the Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, Hon. Justice Kumba Kamanda, who signed a memorandum mandating stricter and expedited judicial processes for drug-related cases under the National Drugs Control Act. The new Practice Direction officially came into effect on 1 December 2025.

In line with that directive and due to the severity of the allegations, no bail was granted to the four defendants. They were remanded at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre (SLCC) in Kenema pending their appearance before the High Court.

The cases were prosecuted by Police Sergeant David Idriss, PC 15361 Vonja Thomas, PC 13576 Sillah Fatmata and PC 13563 Zainab Fornah, who presented the State’s evidence during the committal proceedings.

The High Court is expected to commence hearings in the coming weeks as Sierra Leone intensifies its crackdown on the trafficking, distribution and consumption of dangerous drugs across the country.

Sierra Bottling Group Takes Full Control as New Era Begins at Sierra Leone Brewery Limited

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) has officially entered a transformative new chapter following the completion of Sierra Bottling Group’s (SBG) acquisition of 98.07% majority shareholding in the company. The announcement, made public in December 2025, signals a major shift in the nation’s manufacturing landscape and sets the stage for renewed growth, innovation and strengthened industrial capacity.

According to SBG, the transaction reached full conclusion at the start of December, immediately followed by the commencement of full operational control effective 1st December 2025. This transition marks what the Group describes as a bold step toward securing long-term sustainability for the brewery, modernizing its operations and significantly enhancing its contribution to Sierra Leone’s industrial output.

Under its new leadership, SLBL has already begun operating with upgraded systems, enhanced governance structures and a streamlined framework designed to maximize efficiency and improve product quality. The Management noted that the modernization drive will place strong emphasis on innovation, employee growth and broader community impact; key priorities that align with SBG’s vision for the future of the company and the country’s manufacturing sector.

SBG reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the trusted standards consumers have come to expect from the brewery while expanding opportunities for local development. “As we enter this new era, our commitment remains the same: delivering quality products, supporting local development and investing in the future of Sierra Leone,” the Group stated.

The takeover is widely regarded as a strategic move that will unlock new possibilities for the brewery, one of Sierra Leone’s oldest and most recognizable industrial establishments. Analysts say the acquisition could lead to increased product diversification, improved production capacity and greater competitiveness both locally and within the broader West African market.

SLBL employees and partners have been assured that the transition places strong value on workforce development, operational stability and long-term sustainability. SBG added that the collective efforts of its staff, business partners and loyal consumers will be vital in “brewing new possibilities” for the years ahead.

With this acquisition, Sierra Bottling Group signals its readiness to revitalize the iconic brewery and position it as a modern, forward-looking industrial powerhouse in Sierra Leone. The public and private sectors alike will be watching closely as the company enters this historic new era.

Indian High Commissioner Deepens Diplomatic Engagement with Sierra Leone Parliament

India’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, H.E. Baisnab Charan Pradhan (left) shaking hands with Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas Esq

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

India’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, H.E. Baisnab Charan Pradhan, has strengthened diplomatic engagement with the country’s legislature following a courtesy visit to the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas Esq., on Monday, December 8, 2025. The meeting, described by officials as both cordial and forward-looking, signaled renewed commitment from both nations to broaden cooperation through parliamentary diplomacy.

High Commissioner Baisnab Charan Pradhan conveyed warm felicitations from the Speaker of India’s Parliament and reaffirmed New Delhi’s interest in expanding its footprint in Sierra Leone’s development trajectory. He emphasized that India and Sierra Leone share decades of friendly ties, strengthened by collaboration in education, health, agriculture and infrastructure. According to him, India is eager to build on this foundation by supporting emerging priorities, especially in capacity-building and technological advancement.

During the meeting, Baisnab Charan Pradhan proposed increased engagement through parliamentary exchange programmes, noting that such collaboration would enable lawmakers to share experiences on legislative reforms, oversight practices and democratic consolidation. He also highlighted opportunities for India to offer technical and professional training for parliamentary staff, enhancing institutional effectiveness.

Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas welcomed the High Commissioner and acknowledged India’s role as a reliable development partner. He stressed that the Sixth Parliament is committed to pursuing partnerships that promote innovation, strengthen public institutions and enhance economic growth. The Speaker added that India’s success in democratic governance and technological innovation serves as an important model for many developing countries, including Sierra Leone.

“The Sixth Parliament stands ready to collaborate with India in deepening mutual understanding and creating pathways for sustained cooperation,” Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas said. He noted that strengthening inter-parliamentary dialogue would not only benefit lawmakers but also contribute to better policymaking and improved service delivery for citizens.

Discussions also covered broader areas of economic cooperation. Officials highlighted potential growth sectors such as digital technology, renewable energy, agriculture, trade and youth empowerment; areas where India has considerable expertise and experience. Baisnab Charan Pradhan indicated that India remains open to supporting Sierra Leone in those sectors through capacity-building programmes, knowledge transfer and investment linkages.

Another key element of the talks was the shared commitment to addressing global challenges. Both sides spoke on the need for collaborative approaches to climate resilience, public health emergencies and sustainable development; issues that continue to shape global discourse and require strong partnerships between nations.

The meeting concluded with an understanding that follow-up engagements will be formalized to translate the discussions into concrete action. The Indian High Commission and Sierra Leone Parliament are expected to develop a roadmap outlining priority areas for cooperation, including training initiatives, parliamentary study visits and mechanisms for sustained dialogue.

Observers say the High Commissioner’s visit represents a significant boost to Sierra Leone–India relations. By focusing on governance, economic cooperation and people-to-people ties, both countries are laying the foundation for a more dynamic partnership that aligns with their national development aspirations. As engagements progress, stakeholders anticipate tangible benefits across multiple sectors in the years ahead.

Central Bank Endorses Dr. Gilpin’s Leadership as RCBank Assumes Management of UTB

Managing Director RCB, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A landmark development for Sierra Leone’s financial sector has unfolded as the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) announced the placement of Union Trust Bank (UTB) into Resolution and approved Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) as the acquiring institution. Made public on 8 December 2025, the decision has been widely viewed as a strong endorsement of the stability, credibility and leadership demonstrated by Rokel Commercial Bank under the stewardship of its Managing Director, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin.

According to the Central Bank, the action follows a thorough supervisory review, executed in accordance with Section 69 of the 2019 Banking Act and Section 5(1)(c) of the BSL Act 2019. The move forms part of a structured, well-managed process designed to safeguard depositors, ensure continuity of banking services and maintain financial system stability.

In a strongly worded public notice, the Bank of Sierra Leone stated that the Resolution process is aimed at protecting the interests of customers while preventing systemic risks. It emphasized that RCBank, being strong, stable and well-capitalized, provides long-term security for UTB depositors. A BSL-appointed caretaker management team has been deployed to guide UTB through the transition until the full handover is completed.

Among the firm assurances given by BSL were that:

  • All customer deposits at UTB are safe and fully protected.
  • Banking services will continue without disruption.
  • UTB staff will be fully absorbed into Rokel Commercial Bank.
  • The transition will be smooth, transparent and customer-focused.

The development has triggered widespread reaction across the country, with many Sierra Leoneans describing the move as timely, necessary and a significant show of confidence in Rokel Commercial Bank. Analysts and commentators note that the Central Bank’s decision underlines Rokel Commercial Bank’s remarkable transformation over the past years; rising from a loss-making institution to becoming one of Sierra Leone’s most profitable and respected banks.

Under Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin’s leadership, Rokel Commercial Bank has not only modernized its operations but has expanded its corporate footprint across the sub-region. Only recently, the bank’s leadership visited neighbouring Liberia to explore possibilities for establishing a presence there, signaling its ambition for sub-regional dominance.

Although Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin was not immediately available for comment, a close aide disclosed that the seasoned banker is “in very high spirits” and ready to take on the latest challenge of steering another national institution toward stability and growth. Financial observers say this takeover could mark a new chapter in the country’s banking landscape, strengthening public confidence and reinforcing regulatory oversight mechanisms.

The Bank of Sierra Leone concluded its notice by encouraging the public to continue normal banking activities, adding that further inquiries may be directed to the Banking Supervision Department via bsup@bsl.gov.sl.

The transition unfolds amid widespread recognition that the development represents not only a Resolution measure but also a powerful testament to Dr. Walton Gilpin’s exemplary leadership and Rokel Commercial Bank’s rising stature within Sierra Leone’s financial architecture.

Sierra Leone Troops Prepare for ECOWAS Peace Support Operation in Benin

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone will play a key role in a new regional security mission after the Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government ordered the immediate deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin. The directive, issued on December 7, 2025, follows high-level consultations among regional leaders in response to emerging concerns over stability and constitutional order in Benin.

According to the ECOWAS Commission’s official statement, the decision is grounded in Article 25(e) of the 1999 Protocol Relating to the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security, empowering the regional bloc to intervene in support of peace and democratic order. The statement confirms that Sierra Leone will join Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana in contributing troops to the multinational force.

For Sierra Leone, the deployment reinforces its growing reputation as a dependable contributor to regional peacekeeping operations. It also highlights the country’s continued commitment to collective security under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership, aligning with Sierra Leone’s longstanding support for stability and democratic governance across West Africa.

The ECOWAS Standby Force will assist the Government and Republican Army of Benin in preserving constitutional order and securing the nation’s territorial integrity.

As the sub-region continues to confront governance tensions, attempted unconstitutional changes of Government and security threats, Sierra Leone’s participation signals a strong stance in favour of rule of law and regional stability.

Further details about Sierra Leone’s troop deployment, operational timelines and mission structure are expected from national defence authorities and ECOWAS in the coming days.

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