Lumley Beach, Sierra Leone — March 16, 2026: The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration has officially classified all unclaimed abandoned vessels in national waters as wrecks, transferring ownership to the Government of Sierra Leone. This marks one of the most significant enforcement actions under maritime law since 2002.
Dr. Daniel Kaitibi, Director-General of the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration, confirmed that no owners or operators filed claims within the legally mandated 30-day period. As Receiver of Wrecks, the Maritime Administration now assumes full authority over the vessels.
Key Developments
• All abandoned vessels are legally recognized as wrecks.
• Maritime Administration will act as Receiver of Wrecks.
• Security has been deployed to protect two vessels currently at Lumley Beach.
• A public tender for the sale or removal of wrecks is expected next week.
• Owners responsible for abandonment may face fines and penalties under maritime law.
Dr. Kaitibi raised concerns about two vessels at Lumley Beach linked to the operator Tandeen, who reportedly bypassed proper maritime channels by engaging with the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources instead of the Maritime Administration. The legality of those interactions is now under review.
“This enforcement is not just about declaring wrecks,” Dr. Kaitibi stated. “We are committed to pursuing penalties against those who abandoned vessels and ensuring maritime law is upheld.”
Community Action
The announcement coincided with Day 94 of the Lumley Beach Cleanup, sponsored by Nancy Bode Sheriff. Organizers continue to call for public support through their GoFundMe campaign.
The Maritime Administration’s decisive action signals a new era of accountability in Sierra Leone’s maritime sector. The upcoming tender process will determine the future of the abandoned vessels, while investigations into potential irregularities remain ongoing.
By Trevor Young