Three Arrested at Mile 38 Checkpoint With Suspected Cannabis Bale

Three suspects have been arrested at the Mile 38 Checkpoint after a joint operation by the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) led to the recovery of a bale of dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as jamba.

The operation was conducted on Thursday, 16 July 2026, and was led by Superintendent Foday Sorie Fofanah, the Officer Commanding at the Mile 38 Checkpoint, whose vigilance reportedly helped security personnel intercept the suspects.

The suspects have been identified as Hassan Mansaray of Hastings, Foday Mansaray of Hastings, and Mohamed Kamara, a motorcycle rider operating a motorcycle with registration number AZX 348.

According to reports, the suspects allegedly attempted to evade security checks after approaching the checkpoint. Hassan and Foday Mansaray reportedly disembarked from the motorcycle and carried the bale on their heads while walking away from the checkpoint in an apparent attempt to avoid detection.

Meanwhile, the motorcycle rider, Mohamed Kamara, allegedly continued towards the checkpoint, creating the impression that he was travelling alone.

However, Superintendent Fofanah reportedly noticed the suspicious movement and alerted his team, leading to a swift pursuit and the subsequent arrest of the three individuals. The suspected cannabis bale was also recovered during the operation.

The suspects and the recovered exhibit are currently in police custody as investigations continue.

The Sierra Leone Police said the operation demonstrates the commitment of security forces to tackling drug-related offences, disrupting the illegal movement of narcotics, and protecting communities from the harmful effects of illicit substances.