By Salllieu S. Kanu
Sierra Leone – November 16, 2025: Authorities at Freetown International Airport have intercepted a Zambian national, Miriam Shamane, for allegedly attempting to smuggle suspected cocaine through the Hold Baggage Area while traveling on Ethiopian Airlines, according to the Public Affairs and Tax Education Unit, National Revenue Authority.
The incident occurred at approximately 08:30 hours during routine baggage screening, when security personnel discovered suspicious substances concealed in Shamane’s luggage.
An immediate and thorough examination was conducted in the presence of officials from the Office of National Security (ONS), Sierra Leone Police, National Revenue Authority (NRA) Customs Service Department, the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA), and Westminster Airport staff. Following the investigation, the suspect, along with her passport (No. 2Q077540) and the seized substances, was handed over to the police for further inquiry.
The interception underscores ongoing challenges in airport security and drug trafficking prevention, highlighting the importance of vigilance and collaboration among Sierra Leone’s security agencies.