Police Investigation finds no cocaine link to intercepted vessel MV Akonion

Police Investigation finds no cocaine link to intercepted vessel MV Akonion

Authorities in Sierra Leone have announced that preliminary findings from an official investigation show no evidence linking the vessel MV Akonion to a cocaine shipment originating from Freetown. This statement comes as the vessel remains under international scrutiny for its recent maritime activities.

At a press conference held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at the Police Officers Mess in Kingtom, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Michael Laggah disclosed the initial results of the probe. As Head of the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU), CSP Laggah provided clarity on the vessel's stay at the Freetown port.

The vessel was reportedly intercepted by Spanish authorities on suspicion of drug trafficking, prompting a comprehensive review of its operations during its recent stop in Sierra Leone.

CSP Laggah emphasized that the investigation has yet to establish any connection between the vessel’s cargo and illegal narcotics. "Following a meticulous review of CCTV footage, cargo manifests, loading photographs, and port logs, there is no indication that the MV Akonion was involved in any cocaine shipment from our jurisdiction," he stated.

The Comoros-flagged vessel arrived in Freetown on April 17, 2026, where it remained for five days. During this interval, routine inspections confirmed the cargo consisted of 1,151 metric tons of palm kernel cakes, 250 metric tons of marine diesel fuel, and 15 metric tons of fresh water. All administrative procedures and port documentations were verified as compliant.

While the vessel departed on April 22, 2026, with a crew of 17, investigators noted irregularities in the voyage timeline. The journey took nine days instead of the standard six, a discrepancy that has fueled suspicions of potential clandestine activity during the transit.

Addressing social media reports alleging the vessel is owned by the Syrian-based Serenity Shipping Company, the Sierra Leone National Investment Board clarified that no such entity is registered or authorized to operate within the country.

Furthermore, maritime agencies confirmed that no prior alerts or suspicious activity reports had been filed against the MV Akonion. The vessel showed no evidence of AIS manipulation or documentation fraud, which are typically associated with illicit maritime trade.

When Spanish authorities intercepted the vessel on May 1, 2026, they detained 23 crew members. However, only 17 had originally departed from Freetown, and officials noted that none of the detainees have confirmed links to Sierra Leone.

CSP Lango added, "There is currently no evidence connecting the vessel or its crew to Sierra Leonean nationals or narcotics-related activities within our territorial waters."

Despite these reassuring preliminary results, the investigation remains active. Local authorities are awaiting formal reports from Spanish law enforcement to fully reconstruct the vessel's movements and the circumstances surrounding the arrests.

This update offers clarity amid broader concerns regarding drug trafficking through West African maritime hubs. Officials maintain that these findings highlight their commitment to rigorous security protocols and transparency in port operations.

The government has reaffirmed its dedication to combating transnational crime, ensuring the integrity of Sierra Leone's ports. Authorities continue to urge international partners and the public to remain cooperative as the legal process unfolds.