Unregistered Citizens Prompt Tripartite Security Alliance Against Crime
Speaking at the Government’s Weekly Press Conference on Tuesday, September 15, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Morie Lengor, outlined key cross-border security initiatives and broader public safety efforts aimed at strengthening national and regional stability.
Minister Lengor expressed gratitude for the support of stakeholders, including the Port Authority, in promoting public safety. He commended joint efforts to combat lawlessness, indiscipline, and noise pollution, noting that these measures have successfully restored order and sanity in affected communities.
Addressing cross-border challenges, the Minister highlighted ongoing efforts to curb human trafficking, smuggling, and illicit drug trade between Sierra Leone and Guinea. He noted that the lack of proper documentation for Sierra Leoneans living in Guinea severely hampers identification and assistance during emergencies—as witnessed during the landslide disaster—and announced plans to strengthen the role of the National Civil Registration Authority in registering citizens abroad.
Furthermore, Minister Lengor raised concerns over the non-recognition of the ECOWAS National Identity Card in Guinea, which creates severe barriers for citizens attempting to access banking and essential services. He disclosed that an upcoming bilateral meeting will specifically address ECOWAS compliance and the full recognition of national identity cards across the border.
On regional integration, the Minister referenced a tripartite security framework between Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia. He confirmed that the Foreign Ministers of these nations are coordinating with the Mano River Union (MRU) to facilitate meetings dedicated to implementing joint security agreements.
In response to recent reports of suspected cross-border human trafficking, Sierra Leone dispatched a specialized task force—comprising Interpol, the Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force, and the Transnational Organised Crime Unit—to collaborate with Guinean authorities.
Minister Lengor issued a strong warning to perpetrators, emphasizing that illegal operations will not be tolerated and individuals involved will face strict prosecution under the law.
Comments