By Politico Staff Writer
The government of Sierra Leone has announced the confiscation of a large consignment of bomb-making materials and illegal drugs after intelligence officials uncovered a plot involving individuals suspected of importing the materials into the country in March 2023.
According to the public announcement issued by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MICE) on the 12th July, 2024, a special operation was launched to identify and disrupt the activities of the individuals that brought the materials into the country.
It stated that after months of surveillance, a joint operation by intelligence, military, and police forces was carried out on Sunday, July 7, 2024, targeting several locations in and around the Western Area.
The Ministry described the operation as a success, resulting in the “seizure of various bomb-making materials, including 12.5 kg empty gas cylinders, High-grade Trinitrotoluene (TNT), Detonators, Firing devices, Timers and other bomb-making components disguised as powdered laundry detergents and soap.”
The release added that on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, the security forces conducted further search at the residence of suspect Hussein Antar which led to the discovery of 7,847 Captagon pills.
“These pills, a dangerous and addictive amphetamine-type stimulant, were concealed in bedroom refrigerators and air-conditioners. Captagon is known to be widely used by ISIS and fighters in Syria. The estimated street value of the seized drugs is $ 94,155, 200,” part of the announcement reads.
It pointed out that the Police have so far arrested Hussein Antar, Jamal Antar, Ibrahim Bashiru Kamara, Samuel Marrah, Abdul Aziz Kamara, Alieu Kamara and Ackmed Bangura. It stated that the 7 mentioned individuals are assisting the police with investigations.
The Ministry urges everyone with information related to these activities to contact the Sierra Leone police, noting that investigations are ongoing, and the public “is assured that our intelligence and security forces are effectively managing the situation and there is no need for panic.”
Copyright © 2024 Politico (15/07/24)
