By Sallieu S. Kanu
Sierra Leone — Tuesday, October 21, 2025: At the government’s regular press briefing held in Freetown on Thursday, Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, addressed several ongoing drug-related investigations involving Sierra Leonean diplomatic channels and foreign nationals. His remarks come amid growing public concern over the country’s vulnerability to transnational drug trafficking and the integrity of its diplomatic systems.
Minister Bah provided updates on three high-profile cases, beginning with the incident involving a Sierra Leone Embassy utility vehicle intercepted in Guinea. He confirmed that Guinean authorities have concluded their investigation and formally charged the individuals found in the vehicle. However, he clarified that the former Sierra Leone Ambassador to Guinea was not implicated in any criminal wrongdoing. “President Bio exercised his discretion to recall the ambassador, but no wrongdoing was found,” Bah stated.
Turning to the extradition of alleged Dutch drug trafficker Jos, Minister Bah assured the public that the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice is actively working with international partners, including Dutch authorities, to expedite the process. He emphasized that the extradition will be handled in accordance with Sierra Leonean law, ensuring that due process and the rule of law are upheld.
Responding to recent media reports alleging that a Turkish drug lord may be in possession of a Sierra Leone diplomatic passport, Minister Bah said the government has launched an investigation to verify the claims. He cautioned against premature conclusions, stating, “Anyone can choose to engage in criminal activity, but the government does not knowingly issue diplomatic passports to criminals.”
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding national integrity and ensuring that diplomatic privileges are not abused. He called for public patience as investigations continue and reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s dedication to international cooperation in combating drug trafficking and related crimes.
The briefing comes against the backdrop of a growing drug epidemic in Sierra Leone, which has raised alarm among health professionals, law enforcement agencies, and civil society groups. The country has seen a rise in drug-related arrests, youth addiction, and concerns over porous borders being exploited by international cartels.
Minister Bah’s statement underscores the government’s resolve to confront these challenges head-on, reinforcing its stance on transparency, accountability, and the protection of Sierra Leone’s global reputation.