Jendema, Pujehun District – October 10, 2025: In a decisive move to curb the rising tide of illicit drug trafficking and cross-border crimes, Sierra Leone’s Security Sector leadership convened a high-level stakeholder meeting in Jendema Town, Sorogbema Chiefdom, near the Sierra Leone–Liberia border.
The meeting, chaired by National Security Coordinator (NSCoord) Abdulai Caulker of the Office of National Security (ONS), brought together key security leaders, government officials, community stakeholders, and international representatives to strategize on combating drug trafficking and other illegal activities along the Jendema border corridor.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Caulker described drug trafficking as a grave national threat with the potential to damage Sierra Leone’s international reputation. He emphasized the need for collective accountability among security and law enforcement agencies, particularly those stationed at border points like the Manor River Bridge. He urged local chiefs and community members to collaborate with security forces by providing timely intelligence and reporting suspicious activities.
To bolster surveillance, Mr. Caulker announced the installation of four CCTV cameras at the Jendema border and the rollout of a new Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) to guide border operations nationwide. He also revealed that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has now established a permanent presence at the border post.
Institutional Strengthening and Strategic Reforms
The ONS plans to restructure its local security framework by replacing the Chiefdom Security Coordinator (CSCoord) with a District Security Coordinator (DSCoord) and securing office space for regular security coordination meetings.
Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs David Fortune, representing the Minister, described drug trafficking as a threat to public health, youth development, and national security. He proposed operational cooperation frameworks, staff rotation, audits, community watch groups, and joint cross-border patrols. He also called for a stronger bilateral partnership with Liberia and recommended regular engagements between chiefdom authorities and security coordinators.
Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Liberia, Eddie S. Massally, highlighted the urgency of the meeting, citing frequent drug seizures in Liberia allegedly linked to Sierra Leone. He clarified that goods cleared for transit from Sierra Leone are not subject to further checks, and thus the country should not be blamed for contraband originating elsewhere. Ambassador Massally praised border officials for their professionalism and encouraged community engagement through local chiefs, suggesting small incentives to boost their surveillance efforts.
NDLEA Executive Director Andrew Jaiah Kaikai lauded the initiative, noting Sierra Leone’s pioneering role in developing a strategic drug control master plan. He confirmed the deployment of three NDLEA officers at the border and called for strong collaboration with local authorities.
John Amara, Commissioner for Border Control Management at the National Revenue Authority (NRA), emphasized the dual role of revenue collection and border security. He announced upcoming training for customs officers on drug detection and vehicle search procedures and reaffirmed NRA’s support for the new SoP.
Martin Lavahun, Deputy Director General of the Central Intelligence and Security Agency (CISA), urged stakeholders to also address related crimes such as human trafficking, financial fraud, and arms smuggling, which are often linked to drug networks.
Chief of Defence Staff Lieutenant-General Amara Idara Bangura called for unity and vigilance, revealing plans to recruit 500 veterans in February 2026 to strengthen border security. He stressed the need to monitor not only major border crossings but also minor smuggling routes often used by motorbikes.
Samuel H. Kallon of the Immigration Department advocated for inter-agency cooperation, while Chief Superintendent of Police Unisa Ben Mohamed encouraged community members to remain alert and report suspicious activities.
Paramount Chief Mustapha J. Massaquoi pledged full community cooperation and requested modest support to motivate local chiefs involved in anti-drug surveillance.
Closing the meeting, NSCoord Abdulai Caulker thanked all participants and reiterated the importance of cross-border collaboration, intelligence sharing, and community engagement in the fight against drug trafficking. He emphasized that safeguarding Sierra Leone’s peace and reputation requires a united and sustained effort.
#StratCom@ONS