145 Sierra Leoneans Repatriated from Mauritania

A total of 145 Sierra Leonean citizens, who had been residing in Mauritania, have been successfully repatriated. This event underscores the ongoing challenges associated with irregular migration and the critical importance of strengthening national border security measures.

Superintendent Mohamed Kugba Alieu, head of the Trans-National Organized Crime Unit (TOCU), confirmed the repatriation, noting that these individuals had encountered complex migratory challenges. Many had left Sierra Leone years prior, seeking stability, employment, and improved prospects. However, unforeseen circumstances and the inherent dangers of cross-border travel led them into difficult situations in Mauritania.

Superintendent Allieu made this announcement during the regular police press briefing at the Police Officers Mess, Kingtom in Freetown, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. For some, Mauritania had offered temporary refuge, while for others, it became a source of despair, where aspirations were deferred and hope diminished. The repatriation serves as a poignant reminder of the precarious balance between seeking opportunities and the risks associated with illegal migration.

Upon their arrival in Sierra Leone, the atmosphere was a mix of emotions. Family reunions, marked by both tears and cautious optimism, provided moments of profound relief. Nevertheless, many carried the indelible scars of their experiences, encompassing emotional, physical, and economic hardships.

Superintendent Alieu also emphasized the necessity of bolstering border controls to prevent similar incidents in the future. This repatriation represents more than a logistical exercise; it is a stark illustration of the human cost embedded within the intricate dynamics of migration. 

It calls for compassion, understanding, and concerted efforts to ensure that no individual's journey culminates in despair and that every personal narrative is acknowledged and valued.