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Liberian security forces have arrested two foreign nationals in connection with a major cocaine trafficking investigation linked to the seizure of drugs worth an estimated $19 million at Roberts International Airport. The suspects, a Colombian and a Spanish citizen, were taken into custody during a joint security raid on a suspected drug stash house in Duazon. They are the first foreign nationals arrested in connection with the July airport cocaine bust, which uncovered 237.6 kilograms of cocaine. The raid, conducted early Tuesday morning, also led to the arrest of several Liberian nationals who were reportedly found at the location. Security officers seized a firearm and a large quantity of suspected narcotics during the operation. Investigators are still determining the exact quantity of drugs recovered from the Duazon location but believe the seizure could amount to several tonnes, with a street value running into millions of dollars. A senior security officer involved in the operation said authorities had been following intelligence leads since the initial airport seizure, which eventually led them to the suspected hideout. The arrests mark a significant development in the month-long investigation and represent the first major breakthrough since the July cocaine bust, after key suspects, including an alleged ringleader, reportedly escaped the country before arrest warrants could be executed. The earlier escape triggered public criticism and political debate, with opposition figures accusing the government of President Joseph Boakai of failing to act swiftly. However, the latest operation signals renewed efforts by Liberian authorities to dismantle international drug trafficking networks operating within the country and strengthen the fight against organised narcotics crime.

Forty-five personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) have commenced a seven-week Training-the-Trainer (ToT) programme in Ghana aimed at enhancing the military’s instructional capacity, leadership development, and operational readiness. The training officially started on Monday, 20 July 2026, at Buchanan Hall, Whistler Barracks, Teshie, under the Ghana Armed Forces’ Army Combat Training School (ACTS). The programme forms part of the longstanding defence cooperation between the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the RSLAF, which seeks to strengthen professional competence, improve instructional standards, and promote regional security through capacity-building initiatives. The Sierra Leone contingent consists of four commissioned officers and 41 soldiers, including three female personnel. The participants will spend five weeks at the Army Combat Training School before proceeding to the Jungle Warfare School for an additional two weeks of specialised training. Addressing the opening ceremony, Commander of the Army Combat Training School, Colonel Ekow Nkrane Mensah-Yawson, welcomed the RSLAF delegation to Ghana and urged participants to fully utilise the opportunity to improve their professional skills. He encouraged them to demonstrate commitment, resilience, discipline, and professionalism throughout the course, reminding them that they were representing both Sierra Leone and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces. Colonel Mensah-Yawson noted that discipline remains a defining quality of every professional soldier and would be critical to the successful completion of the programme. The Training-the-Trainer course is designed to provide participants with advanced instructional techniques, tactical knowledge, and leadership skills required for contemporary military operations. It is also expected to enhance cooperation and interoperability between the Ghana Armed Forces and the RSLAF while strengthening the defence partnership between the two countries. Upon completion, the trained personnel are expected to return to Sierra Leone with improved capabilities to train and mentor other RSLAF members, contributing to the continuous professional development of the country’s armed forces. The initiative further demonstrates the commitment of Sierra Leone and Ghana to strengthening military professionalism, improving training standards, and advancing regional security through sustained defence cooperation.

ECOWAS Greenlights President Bio’s 2026 West Africa Investment Summit The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially sanctioned the West Africa Integration and Investment Summit (WAIIS 2026), a major regional initiative led by Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio during his chairmanship of the ECOWAS Authority. The formal approval was secured at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Lungi, Sierra Leone. Regional leaders endorsed the summit’s framework and mandated collaboration with the ECOWAS Business Council to drive private sector-led economic growth. Scheduled for November 16–18, 2026, in Lungi, the summit aims to convene Heads of State, ministers, investors, and development partners. The event, themed “Powering Regional Integration through Energy Trade, Strategic Minerals, Agribusiness and Digital Transformation,” will focus on critical areas such as industrial growth, natural resource development, food systems, and regional digital connectivity. President Bio emphasized that the initiative is designed to mobilize capital and unlock cross-border investment opportunities, stating, “This initiative will bring together governments, development finance institutions, and the private sector to mobilize investment in cross-border energy, strategic minerals, agribusiness, and digital transformation”. The summit is now more than a proposal; it holds a regional mandate to strengthen value chains and remove barriers to economic cooperation. Hon. Alhaji Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, Special Envoy for WAIIS 2026, noted that the approval is a pivotal step toward converting integration commitments into tangible regional projects that can enhance food security, job creation, and energy access. This decision reinforces Sierra Leone’s role as a central hub for regional dialogue on trade, energy security, and digital development during President Bio’s tenure as ECOWAS Chairman.

Chief Minister Sengeh Debunks ECOWAS Summit Costs Amid Public Debate Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh has addressed public concerns regarding the cost of hosting the recent ECOWAS Mid-Year Statutory Meetings, clarifying that the US$124 million figure widely discussed is not the expenditure for the event itself, but an investment in long-term national infrastructure. Speaking at a government press conference at Freetown's Miatta Civic Centre on July 21, 2026, Dr. Sengeh, who served as the National Coordinator for the summit, emphasized that the budget is dedicated to permanent assets rather than temporary event costs. These developments—which include a new conference centre, a hotel, and presidential villas—are designed to bolster Sierra Leone’s capacity to host major international conferences and national events for years to come. Construction is expected to be completed by November 2026. Dr. Sengeh provided details on the scope of the ECOWAS hosting duties, which spanned several phases, including the "Summit of the Future" and the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. He explained that sessions were structured with specific speakers to manage the complex regional engagements, with meetings held across multiple venues, including the Bintumani International Conference Centre in Freetown and the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre in Lungi. Reflecting on the successful hosting, Dr. Sengeh reiterated that the government remains committed to its long-term development vision. He highlighted the goal of transforming Sierra Leone into an inclusive middle-income nation by 2039, aligning with broader goals like the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Dr. Sengeh concluded by calling on citizens to contribute to these national development objectives, stressing that despite the current economic challenges, the infrastructure investments represent a strategic commitment to Sierra Leone’s future.

Mariyam Lorba Konneh to Represent Sierra Leone at Miss World 2026 Sierra Leone has officially selected Mariyam Lorba Konneh as its representative for the 2026 Miss World pageant, marking the country's participation in the global beauty competition's 75th anniversary celebration. According to a letter from the Miss World Organisation, signed by its Chairperson and CEO, Julia Morley CBE, Mariyam has been confirmed as Sierra Leone's official delegate for the 73rd Miss World Pageant, which will be held in Vietnam. The competition will culminate in the grand finale in Ho Chi Minh City on September 5, 2026. Mariyam, who was the First Runner-Up in the 2025 Miss Sierra Leone Competition and previously won the AYV Miss University Sierra Leone 2022 title, was endorsed by the Board of Miss Sierra Leone Limited following consultations with the Miss World Organisation. In a press release, the Miss Sierra Leone Organisation explained that the decision became necessary after it was determined that the 2026 Miss Sierra Leone national competition could not be concluded in time to select and adequately prepare a winner for this year's international pageant. The Board stated that the move was made to ensure Sierra Leone does not forfeit its place at the prestigious global event, stressing that participation is both a franchise obligation and a matter of national pride, international visibility, and continuity. According to the organisation's guidelines, two names the national winner and the First Runner-Up are submitted annually to the Miss World Organisation. The First Runner-Up is eligible to represent the country if the reigning titleholder is unable to participate, perform her duties, or if the subsequent national competition is not held in time. Based on this provision, the Board unanimously endorsed Mariyam Lorba Konneh as Sierra Leone's official representative, noting that the decision safeguards the country's continued presence on one of the world's foremost platforms for beauty, culture, and humanitarian service. At just 21 years old, Mariyam has already established herself as an entrepreneur and philanthropist. She runs a successful company and charity foundation focused on creating employment opportunities and supporting business start-ups for women and young people. Her foundation also promotes human capital development and provides menstrual hygiene support to women and girls. The Board further commended Mariyam for her outstanding performance during the 2025 Miss Sierra Leone competition, describing her as intelligent, graceful, and a strong leader with an unwavering commitment to community development. It expressed confidence that her passion for empowering young people and representing the aspirations of Sierra Leonean women makes her an ideal ambassador for the nation at Miss World 2026.

The Tankoro Police Division, in collaboration with the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), has dismantled an alleged electricity meter theft syndicate operating in Koidu City, Kono District, leading to the arrest of two suspects and the recovery of three stolen electricity meters. The suspects, identified as Ibrahim Lebbie and Aiah Mbayoh, are currently in police custody at the Tankoro Divisional Headquarters, where they are assisting with investigations into the alleged theft of EDSA meters from different locations across the city. The investigation was launched following separate complaints filed by three residents, including Kono District Chief Imam Sheik Kabineh Mansaray, Alpha Jalloh, and Mohamed, who reported the theft of their electricity meters to the police. Following receipt of the complaints, the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of the Tankoro Police Division, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Dr Sahr Nyuma, assigned investigators to identify and apprehend those responsible. Working alongside EDSA officials in Kono, police conducted a coordinated operation that resulted in the arrest of the two suspects and the recovery of the stolen meters. Preliminary investigations suggest that Ibrahim Lebbie allegedly stole the electricity meters and later sold them to Aiah Mbayoh. A search conducted at Mbayoh’s premises led to the recovery of all three stolen meters. The police said investigations are ongoing as they work to establish further details surrounding the alleged syndicate and identify whether other individuals may be involved. The suspects remain in police custody pending the conclusion of investigations.

A joint police team led by Superintendent Foday Sorie Fofanah, Officer Commanding (OC) of the Mile 38 Checkpoint, has arrested Manso Bangura of Waterloo for allegedly being in possession of nine plastic wraps containing dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as “Jamba.” The suspect was arrested on Sunday, 19 July 2026, during a routine stop-and-search operation conducted by police officers at the Mile 38 Checkpoint. Police said the suspected narcotics and the suspect have been taken into custody to assist with ongoing investigations. Investigations into the matter are continuing.

Bo Rangers Football Club has officially announced the departure of Head Coach Alhaji Abedi Foray following his appointment to the technical team of Sierra Leone's senior men's national football team, Leone Stars. The club said the decision was reached through a mutual agreement, allowing Foray to take up his new national assignment. Foray leaves Bo Rangers after a successful spell in which he guided the club to the Sierra Leone Premier League title and helped establish it as one of the country's dominant football teams through his tactical discipline and strong leadership. Before joining Bo Rangers, he enjoyed a successful tenure at Kamboi Eagles, where he earned recognition for developing talented players and building a competitive side. His appointment to the Leone Stars technical team is widely regarded as recognition of his professionalism, dedication, and consistent success in Sierra Leonean football. Bo Rangers thanked Foray for his service and wished him success as he begins his new role with the national team.

A businessman, Mohamed Nicole, appeared before Magistrate John Manso Fornah at Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 2 to face charges of obtaining money by false pretenses. The charges stem from an alleged Canadian visa scam involving Le27,000. The prosecution alleges that in November 2025, at Juba Hill, Freetown, Nicole falsely claimed he could secure a Canadian visa and facilitate travel for Foday Mohamed Lamin Kamara, the complainant's son. Prosecutors contend that Nicole made these representations knowing they were false, with the intent to defraud the complainant. During the previous hearing, the prosecution expressed its intention to close its case. In response, the defence filed a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution had failed to establish a prima facie case against the accused. Magistrate Fornah adjourned the matter to July 27, 2026, to allow the prosecution time to file a formal reply to the defence's submission.

Grass Field Community and Waterloo Community played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in their opening Group B fixture of the 1XBet ASSPA Inter-Community League 2026 at the Approved School Playing Field. Both teams entered the Matchday Two encounter determined to secure a winning start to their campaign, producing a competitive and exciting contest that kept fans engaged throughout the match. Waterloo Community took the lead in the 26th minute after a dangerous attacking move resulted in Grass Field defender Noah Kamara inadvertently turning the ball into his own net, handing Waterloo an early advantage. Trailing by a goal, Grass Field responded strongly and gradually increased their attacking pressure as they searched for an equaliser. Their efforts were rewarded in the 69th minute when Sallieu Tarawallie, popularly known as Capay Sallieu, rose highest to connect with a well-timed header, bringing the score level and sparking celebrations among Grass Field supporters. The final stages of the match saw both communities push forward in search of a decisive winner, but determined defending and disciplined goalkeeping prevented either side from finding the breakthrough. The highly contested encounter also produced several disciplinary moments, with the referee issuing a number of yellow cards. Shomensa Conteh and Francis Koroma (Tortoise) were cautioned for Grass Field Community, while Abdul Bangura, Sullayman Kamara, and Waterloo players wearing jersey numbers 14 and 21 also received bookings. At full time, both sides settled for a share of the points, taking one point each from their opening Group B match. Although neither team secured maximum points, their performances highlighted the competitiveness expected in the race for qualification to the knockout stage of the tournament.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called on Guinea to fully withdraw its troops from the disputed Yenga border enclave, bringing renewed regional attention to one of Sierra Leone’s longest-standing territorial disputes. The appeal was contained in the final communiqué issued at the conclusion of the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held at the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre in Lungi. During the summit, regional leaders reviewed major political, security and governance issues affecting member states. While welcoming the recent partial reopening of the Yenga border crossing by Sierra Leone and Guinea, the Authority stressed that further action is required to fully implement commitments previously agreed by both countries. “The Authority commends the authorities of Sierra Leone and Guinea for the partial reopening of the Yenga border, and further urges Guinean authorities to fully withdraw their troops from Yenga and Lofa in accordance with the Tripartite Communiqué of March 2026 and continue to pursue diplomatic solutions,” the communiqué stated. To facilitate a lasting resolution, ECOWAS directed its Commission to expedite technical assessments of border friction points and collaborate with the Mano River Union (MRU), the African Union (AU), and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) in developing sustainable solutions. Beyond the border dispute, the regional bloc welcomed progress under Sierra Leone’s Agreement for National Unity between the Government and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), describing recent reconciliation efforts as encouraging developments ahead of the country’s 2028 general elections. ECOWAS also commended President Julius Maada Bio’s decision to discontinue legal proceedings against former President Ernest Bai Koroma, describing the move as a significant contribution to national reconciliation and political stability. The Authority further encouraged political parties and other national stakeholders to sustain dialogue while ensuring that constitutional and electoral reforms are implemented in an inclusive, transparent and peaceful manner. On regional security, ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism and violent extremism across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin, reiterating plans to operationalise the ECOWAS Counterterrorism Brigade by 2027. The summit also saw Sierra Leone secure a strategic position within the ECOWAS Commission, with Francess Piagie Alghali appointed Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, further strengthening the country’s role in advancing the bloc’s peace, security and governance agenda. The resolutions adopted at the summit underscore ECOWAS’ continued commitment to promoting peaceful resolution of the Yenga border dispute, strengthening democratic governance, and supporting political stability in Sierra Leone and across the West African region.

A bench warrant has been issued for the arrest of Komba Kaminty, a laborer accused of visa fraud, along with his surety, following their failure to appear at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 2. Magistrate John Manso Fornah ordered the warrants after both parties missed the scheduled hearing. Kaminty faces two counts of obtaining money by false pretenses under the Larceny Act 1916. Prosecutors allege that between February and April 2024, Kaminty defrauded two individuals by promising to secure travel visas to Brazil. The charges include: US$5,000: Allegedly received from Isatu Bangura (via Mamoud Jalloh) under the false pretense of securing visas for Yusif, Fatmata, and Bai Bangura. US$2,000: Allegedly taken from Agnes Wotto (via Christiana Niccol) for promised visa procurement. The case has been adjourned until July 27, 2026, pending further proceedings.