Diplomatic Passport Scandal: Immigration Chief Raises Concern Over Turkish Non-Cooperation

Chief Immigration Officer Moses Tiffa Baio has disclosed that Turkish authorities have not responded to requests from the Government of Sierra Leone regarding Abdullah Alp Ustun, a suspected international cocaine trafficker allegedly found in possession of a Sierra Leonean diplomatic passport.

In a recent interview with Truth Media, Baio said Turkish authorities are “dragging their feet” in providing evidence on the man, nicknamed Don Vito, who is reportedly linked to Jos Leijdekkers, a convicted drug kingpin believed to be living in Sierra Leone.

Baio described the initial reports as a rumor and noted that the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) has been conducting internal investigations, including a thorough review of its records. He said the department is following up with external partners because it requires an official copy of the diplomatic passport allegedly held by the apprehended individual. The investigation remains incomplete because the requested document has not been provided, and SLID continues to face difficulties engaging the Turkish Embassy.

The investigation, ordered by President Julius Maada Bio, seeks to determine how Ustun obtained the diplomatic passport, verify the authenticity of any supporting documents, and identify potential lapses, procedural failures, or misconduct. SLID is also conducting a broader audit of all diplomatic passports as part of efforts to strengthen accountability and prevent future abuse.

The case has attracted international attention due to Ustun’s alleged ties to organized crime and the involvement of multiple foreign authorities. The Sierra Leone Immigration Department says it remains engaged with international partners as the probe continues, underscoring Sierra Leone’s commitment to protecting the integrity of its diplomatic privileges.