By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has launched a full-scale investigation into reports of alleged unauthorized clearing of shipping containers at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Cline Town, Freetown. The probe follows growing claims circulating on social and other media platforms suggesting that some containers may have been released from the port without proper customs procedures or the payment of due taxes and duties.
In a press release issued by the Commissioner-General on Friday, the Authority confirmed that it had taken note of the allegations and had immediately activated an internal and inter-agency investigation to ascertain the facts. The move, according to the NRA, demonstrates its continued commitment to maintaining transparency, accountability, and professionalism in revenue collection and customs administration.
The statement revealed that the joint investigation will be thorough and will not only seek to verify the authenticity of the allegations but also identify those responsible for any wrongdoing. “The joint investigation aims to establish the facts, recover any lost revenue—with interest and penalties—and ensure that criminal charges are filed against anyone found culpable,” the statement read.
The Commissioner-General stressed that the NRA will not tolerate any form of corruption or fraudulent behavior within or outside its operations. “The National Revenue Authority remains fully committed to upholding transparency, integrity, and professionalism in all its operations. Any individual or group involved in fraudulent practices intended to undermine the work of the Authority will face the full force of the law,” the release emphasized.
The NRA further cautioned both businesses and individuals engaged in import and export activities to ensure full compliance with customs laws and procedures. It warned that any attempt to evade taxes or engage in illegal clearing activities would attract severe legal and financial consequences.
In a strong message to the trading community, the Authority advised that all transactions with the NRA must be conducted strictly through authorized and lawful channels. It reiterated that customs processes are designed to safeguard state revenue and ensure fair trade, and as such, any deviation from these procedures constitutes a criminal offense.
The Commissioner-General also reassured the public of the NRA’s commitment to safeguarding national revenue and strengthening the integrity of the country’s port and customs systems. He emphasized that the Authority’s priority remains to mobilize the much-needed resources required to support national development programs as outlined by the Government of Sierra Leone.
According to officials, the ongoing investigation will be conducted in collaboration with other relevant agencies, including the Sierra Leone Ports Authority, the Sierra Leone Police, and the Anti-Corruption Commission, to ensure that all aspects of the allegations are exhaustively examined.
The Authority has also encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities related to customs or tax evasion through its official whistleblower channels. This, the statement noted, is part of the NRA’s broader effort to promote public participation in protecting national revenue and combating corruption in all its forms.
The NRA reaffirmed that its operations will continue unhindered and that strict measures are being put in place to prevent a recurrence of such incidents, should the allegations prove true.
