Suspected International Cybercrime Network Uncovered, 18 Arrested, 400 Detained
Sierra Leone’s security forces have arrested 18 people and detained approximately 400 others in coordinated raids targeting a suspected international cybercrime network operating in Freetown and Kenema, according to a government press release issued on 27 October 2026.
The operations, conducted in collaboration with the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA), uncovered more than 1,200 mobile phones, over 500 computers and monitors, five servers, 301 passports and 339 SIM cards, among other electronic equipment.
The SIM cards comprised 289 international cards and 50 local cards. Authorities also recovered laptops, nine central processing units (CPUs), an iPad, translator glasses, a smartwatch and other accessories.
Those detained include Sierra Leoneans and foreign nationals of African and Asian origin. However, the government said investigations were ongoing to establish the network’s activities, international connections, sources of financing, and the identities of those who organised or facilitated its operations in Sierra Leone.
In its statement, the government warned against the use of the country as a base for cybercrime, declaring: “Sierra Leone will not be used as a base for cybercrime.”
The government said the scale of the raids and the materials recovered raised concerns about a potentially organised, cross-border criminal enterprise.
It added that investigations would be thorough and that anyone found responsible would face prosecution in accordance with the law.
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education said the government, through the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, NaTCA, and the security services, remained vigilant against the exploitation of Sierra Leone’s communications infrastructure for criminal purposes.
Members of the public were encouraged to report suspected cybercrime and suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. The government said further verified information would be released as investigations progressed.
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