By Moses Kay Fembeh
The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has firmly denied any connection to the recent cocaine scandal involving a container seized by Nigerian authorities at the Lagos Port. The container, reportedly destined for Sierra Leone, is said to have contained substances confirmed as cocaine with an estimated street value of 28 billion Naira.
Addressing the issue in Freetown, the Director General of SLPHA, Mr. Yankuba Bio, stated that the Authority has initiated an internal inquiry to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident. He emphasised that SLPHA remains committed to transparency, due process, and adherence to international maritime standards.
“The SLPHA has not received any official report, communication, or document indicating that such a container was processed or cleared through our facility,” Mr. Bio asserted. “While these allegations are serious, they appear to be part of a broader narrative that seeks to tarnish Sierra Leone’s international reputation and cast doubt on the integrity of our expanding maritime trade sector.”
According to Nigerian officials, the interception was based on intelligence-led operations, and the manifest reportedly listed Sierra Leone as the final destination. However, SLPHA maintains that a review of its port records shows no evidence of the container arriving in or being documented within Sierra Leone’s port system.
Mr. Bio further highlighted that the country’s port operations are under constant surveillance, supported by international security partners, and strictly follow regional and global customs and maritime compliance protocols.
“This matter extends beyond our national borders,” Mr. Bio said. “It speaks to international cooperation, trust, and the collective responsibility to safeguard trade routes. We stand ready to collaborate with Nigerian authorities to clarify the situation and defend the integrity of Sierra Leone.”
He also appealed to international media institutions to practice responsible reporting, cautioning against the dissemination of unverified information capable of misleading the public or unfairly damaging Sierra Leone’s global image.
As investigations progress, regional stakeholders and the public continue to await further clarification. The SLPHA has assured citizens that it will remain engaged with all relevant agencies to uphold the security and credibility of Sierra Leone’s maritime and trade channels.
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