The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority has intensified its efforts to combat illicit maritime trafficking and organized crime across Latin America, the Caribbean, and West Africa.
In collaboration with the Seaport Cooperation Project, a European Union-funded initiative, the Authority supported a two-day practical training session held on March 31 and April 1, 2026, at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay. The SLPHA provided essential resources, including a vessel, operational environment, and personnel to facilitate the exercise.
The practical training built on theoretical sessions conducted in March 2025, allowing participants to apply their knowledge in real-life scenarios.
Francisca Ziniel, Lead Trainer for SEACOP and Head of the Joint Port Control Unit of Ghana, working with the Narcotic Control Commission of Ghana, explained that the training aims to equip maritime officers with the skills needed to combat transnational crimes such as drug trafficking. She noted that this marks SEACOP’s third engagement in Sierra Leone and that the current mission focuses on mentorship and evaluating how effectively trainees have applied previous lessons.
She revealed that earlier training in 2025 was limited due to the unavailability of a vessel, which affected performance. However, with the support of the SLPHA and the Office of National Security, a vessel was made available this time, leading to a significant improvement in performance.
According to Ziniel, trainees successfully identified hidden contraband during simulation exercises and demonstrated strong investigative and communication skills when engaging with crew members. She encouraged participants to continue applying the knowledge and skills acquired, emphasizing their importance in real-world operations.
She further noted that having trained officers capable of conducting effective vessel inspections enhances Sierra Leone’s international reputation and demonstrates the country’s commitment to tackling transnational crime in line with international maritime standards. This, she added, could help attract foreign investment.
Tamba Mbayo, a member of the Combined Maritime Control Unit (CMCU), described the exercise as a “ramage training” designed to refresh and strengthen participants’ practical skills. He explained that the training involved personnel from multiple agencies, including the Office of National Security, SLPHA, Interpol, the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU), the Sierra Leone Police, and the Sierra Leone Navy.
Mbayo emphasized that the training is timely and critical, noting that it will enhance Sierra Leone’s maritime security both regionally and globally.
Ing. Abdulai Dumbuya, a Maritime Officer, also highlighted that the exercise has significantly improved their preparedness to detect and prevent the inflow of illicit drugs through the country’s maritime channels.