By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
In a significant security operation, Custom Officers of the National Revenue Authority (NRA) in Kambia District, Northern Sierra Leone, have intercepted a large consignment of contraband drugs and 135 Android mobile phones at the Gbalamuya border crossing point.
According to NRA officials, the successful operation was made possible through strategic intelligence gathering from informants within the border communities and partner security agencies. The seized contraband included large quantities of Tramadol, a restricted pharmaceutical substance often abused, and 135 boxed Android smartphones suspected to have been smuggled into the country without proper declaration.
The Local Unit Commander (LUC) of the Kambia Police Division, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Bob M.N. Mansaray, confirmed that the matter is currently under investigation at his station. He assured the public that all individuals involved will be brought to justice.
The vehicle transporting the illegal items was reportedly en route to Freetown when it was stopped and searched. The driver, Mohamed Jalloh, admitted that the vehicle had crossed into Sierra Leone and was heading to the capital when it was intercepted by border authorities.
The seized mobile phones are currently in the custody of the NRA Customs Department at Gbalamuya. Authorities stated that the phones will be subjected to proper declaration and payment of applicable duties before any further action is taken.
Officials emphasized that this operation is part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal cross-border activities, which pose serious threats to both national security and revenue collection. Smuggling at Sierra Leone’s borders, particularly of drugs and undeclared goods, continues to undermine government efforts to enforce law and order and protect public health.
Customs officers at the Gbalamuya border pledged to continue heightened surveillance and smart security strategies to combat drug trafficking and other forms of smuggling. They reiterated their commitment to staying ahead of perpetrators and ensuring that all goods entering or leaving the country pass through proper legal and tax-compliant procedures.
This latest seizure underscores the critical need for stronger border security measures and collaboration among security forces to tackle smuggling and revenue evasion, both of which hamper national development.