By Juliana Vandy, Strategic Communications Unit – MoICE
The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has concluded its investigation into allegations surrounding the irregular release of three containers at the Freetown Port, following a formal notification from the National Revenue Authority (NRA) on 9 October 2025.
The inquiry was launched after SLPHA dismissed as false and misleading social media claims suggesting that 16 containers had been smuggled through the port. Director-General Yankuba Bio promptly authorized a joint fact-finding mission involving SLPHA management and executive members of the Association of Clearing and Forwarding Agencies (ACFA).
The team conducted thorough inspections across all institutions involved in the clearance process, including Freetown Terminal Limited (FTL), Logistics Solutions and Services (LSS), the Customs and Excise Department of the NRA, and Integrated Trade Services (ITS).
According to the investigation’s findings, all standard clearance procedures were followed. Although the Customs Department acknowledged that the clearance documents were not processed through the ASYCUDA system, a formal Customs Release—complete with security features such as perforations, stamps, and official signatures—was duly issued and dispatched via the Standard Customs Way Book.
Payments were confirmed to have been made to all relevant institutions involved in the clearance process, except for Customs duties, which were still pending at the time of review. Furthermore, physical examinations of the containers were conducted in the presence of Customs and SLPHA officials and later certified by the Customs and Excise Department. Scanning and inspection results revealed no security concerns.
In response to the findings, SLPHA reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability in port operations. The Authority emphasized its ongoing collaboration with the NRA and other stakeholders to strengthen control mechanisms and enhance integration within the ASYCUDA platform to prevent future irregularities.
SLPHA also clarified the roles of key institutions in the clearance process:
- FTL operates the container terminal.
- Nectar Sierra Leone Bulk Terminal handles bulk and break-bulk cargoes.
- NRA’s Customs and Excise Department collects import and export duties.
- ITS is responsible for scanning all imported and exported containers.
- LSS manages cargo tracking from port of loading to port of discharge.
The Authority pledged to continue fostering a secure and efficient operating environment for all stakeholders and reassured the public of its dedication to upholding high standards in maritime operations.