By Hassan Osman Kargbo
A major police operation led by the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has resulted in the interception of a significant quantity of suspected tramadol in the Tokeh community, Western Area Peninsula of Freetown. The bust marks another milestone in the ongoing nationwide crackdown on illegal drug activities.
The intelligence-led raid was conducted under the direction of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Sylvester M.N. Koroma, the Regional Police Commander for Freetown West. The operation, which was launched following credible intelligence, reflects the SLP’s renewed focus on proactive and community-supported policing strategies.
The joint task force, drawn from the Goderich Police Division, was led by Chief Superintendent of Police Alimamy Sesay. It included personnel from the Operational Support Division (OSD), General Duty officers, and members of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Together, they swiftly mobilized and descended on the targeted location after receiving actionable intelligence about suspicious activity in the area.
Despite initial setbacks in locating the exact hideout, the team’s persistence was rewarded when they uncovered a hidden cache of suspected tramadol. The seizure included sixteen (16) gross and five (5) packets of the drug, each packet containing 250 milligrams. The substantial quantity points to what authorities believe may be part of a broader network of illegal drug distribution in the region.
The recovered items were promptly handed over to the Head of the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU), Chief Superintendent Mohamed K. Allieu, for further investigation and processing. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether any arrests were made during the operation, but investigations are ongoing.
This latest bust comes on the heels of a similar operation carried out on Taylor Street in Freetown, where another batch of illegal drugs was intercepted. The series of operations underscore the increasing effectiveness of the SLP’s intelligence-led tactics and its commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks in Sierra Leone.
AIG Sylvester Koroma praised the coordinated effort, noting that such operations are part of a broader strategy aimed at safeguarding public health and strengthening national security. “This successful interception is a direct result of intelligence-led policing and the growing collaboration between law enforcement and the communities we serve,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships and continued intelligence sharing, which he said are crucial in tackling organised crime. “We are sending a clear message: Sierra Leone is not a safe haven for drug traffickers. We will pursue and dismantle these networks wherever they may be operating,” AIG Koroma affirmed.
The Police Chief also reiterated the importance of public cooperation, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity in their communities. “We rely heavily on the eyes and ears of the public. With their support, we can continue to disrupt these criminal enterprises before they take root,” he added.
As the fight against drug trafficking intensifies, the Sierra Leone Police continue to build momentum with successive operations across the country. The Tokeh seizure serves as a strong warning to would-be traffickers and highlights the effectiveness of intelligence, dedication, and collaboration in safeguarding Sierra Leone’s communities.
