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Spokesman: President Bio Did Not Seek Re-Election as ECOWAS Chair During an interview on Radio Democracy 98.1 FM, Presidential Spokesman Alpha Kanu refuted claims that President Julius Maada Bio attempted to secure a second term as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. Kanu stated that President Bio did not contest or campaign for re-election and was fully aware his one-year tenure was concluding and understood that the role is not automatically renewable without consensus among member states. "The President was aware he had to hand over the leadership," Kanu explained, adding that the chairmanship is "not a gift to keep unless it is by consensus." Kanu added that President Bio chose not to pursue an extension, a decision made to facilitate the selection of a new Chair and prevent a leadership vacuum, while also highlighting the regional bloc's tradition of balancing leadership between Anglophone and Francophone nations to ensure inclusivity, noting, "It is a necessity to have that balance in ECOWAS." While the ECOWAS chairmanship is a one-year rotating position, it can be extended by consensus demonstrated in recent times by Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Nigeria) from July 2023 to June 2025, and Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana) and John Kufuor (Ghana) in 2003 and 2004. Kanu’s remarks were made in response to ongoing public debate regarding whether President Bio’s leadership record warranted a similar extension.

Former Electoral Chief Appointed ECOWAS Representative to Liberia Mohamed Kenewui Konneh, the former Chairman and Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), has been appointed as the new Permanent Representative of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to Liberia. This appointment marks a significant transition in his career from national electoral leadership to a prominent regional diplomatic role. In his new capacity, he is tasked with representing ECOWAS’s interests while supporting the organization’s ongoing engagement, programmatic initiatives, and cooperation efforts within the country. This includes facilitating dialogue aimed at strengthening regional integration and democratic governance. His selection draws upon his extensive background in public service and electoral management. Given his experience in regional discussions regarding electoral governance and reform, he is expected to be a vital asset to the regional institution. This appointment is seen as a way to strengthen the organization's presence across West Africa by leveraging the expertise of seasoned professionals from member states.

Minister Encourages Pupils Beginning BECE The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education Conrad Sackey addressed pupils across Sierra Leone through a social media publication on his handle, as they began the Basic Education Certificate Examination. Minister Sackey, who noted the thousands of students carrying the future of themselves and their families, reminded them of their assiduousness in their preparation and encouraged them to exhibit confidence in answering questions they encounter. He commended supporting families and reminded the backbones of education, the teachers of their importance to the whole system. He concluded by reposing confidence in all parties in the execution of their roles to national development.

Businesswoman Remanded Over Alleged Travel Fraud Scam Yei Mebor, a 28-year-old businesswoman, has been remanded to the female correctional facility in Freetown following her appearance at Pademba Road Court No. 1. Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah ordered the remand after Mebor faced charges of conspiracy to defraud and causing money to be paid under false pretenses. Prosecutors allege that on November 17, 2025, in Koidu, Kono District, Mebor conspired with unknown individuals to defraud Aiah Kposowa of 50,000 Leones. According to the allegations, Mebor claimed she could arrange travel to the United Kingdom for Kposowa’s daughter, Sia Kposowa. A second count details that she allegedly fraudulently caused Kposowa to pay an additional 50,000 Leones to an entity called Madisson in Lungi Town, under the same false promise of facilitating overseas travel. As the case is proceeding by way of committal, no plea was entered when the charges were read. Prosecutor Inspector Kadie M. Taylor confirmed that Mebor has received the relevant case and inquiry files. Citing the gravity of the offenses, Magistrate Jah denied the defendant bail and adjourned the proceedings until July 20, 2026.

Ten Men Remanded Over Alleged Shipping Container Theft Ten men have been remanded to the Freetown male correctional facility following their appearance at Pademba Road Court No. 1, where they face charges related to the alleged theft of a shipping container at Queen Elizabeth II Quay. The defendants—Abu Bakarr Kabba Mansaray, Ibrahim Ahmed Kargbo, Ibrahim Bangura, Benito Conteh, Mohamed Amara Kamara, Alhassan Kamara, Jacob Gbaya, Mohamed Sahr Tommy, Chernor Amadu Sesay, and Abu Mansaray—are accused of involvement in a sophisticated operation to remove detained cargo. The prosecution alleges that between 1 and 22 May 2026, the group conspired to steal a shipping container (serial number TLLU 2297785) and its contents, which were under the control of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) as part of an active police investigation. The ten defendants face five counts, including conspiracy to commit larceny, larceny, forgery, uttering forged documents, and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice. Prosecutors further allege that on 15 May, the ninth defendant, Chernor Amadu Sesay, forged a staff identity card from the Akim and Satu Clearing and Forwarding Agency to facilitate the removal of the container. No plea was taken, as the matter is proceeding by way of committal. Despite applications for bail by defense counsel Brima Koroma, Maddieu Sesay, and Jessica M. Jengo—who argued that their clients were local residents with reliable sureties—Principal Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah denied the request, citing the gravity of the charges. State Prosecutor Yusuf Isaac Sesay requested a short adjournment to finalize case files. The matter is set to return to court on 21 July 2026.

Abacha City ended their 2025/26 Leone Rock Premier League campaign with a dominant 5-0 victory over FC Kallon at the Approved School Field on Saturday, 18 July 2026, but the impressive result came too late to save them from relegation. Abacha City started strongly and took the lead in the 11th minute through Delvin Davies, who gave his side an early advantage. FC Kallon attempted to respond, but Abacha’s defence remained solid and kept their opponents at bay. After the break, Abacha City intensified their attack and produced a remarkable second-half performance. James Kargbo doubled the lead in the 65th minute before Emerson Amos added a third just a minute later. Kargbo then completed his brace in the 68th minute to put the game beyond FC Kallon. Despite efforts from FC Kallon to find a consolation goal, Abacha City’s defence remained resolute, securing their biggest league victory of the season. However, the emphatic win could not change their fate, as Abacha City have been relegated to Division One after a difficult campaign. The club’s final-day triumph provided a memorable farewell performance, but it was overshadowed by the disappointment of losing their Premier League status.

The Motema Police Division has restored peace between Tankor and Musaya communities in Sangbafeh Section, Sandor Chiefdom, following a long-running land dispute that had previously resulted in violent clashes and injuries. The engagement, held on Saturday, 18 July 2026, was part of the Police Division’s community policing efforts to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence. Although the matter remains under investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at Motema Police Station, authorities initiated discussions to prevent further conflict. The peace initiative was coordinated by the Community Relations Department, headed by Thompson Peter Ndapi, under the leadership of Local Unit Commander CSP Almamy G. Sesay. A police team led by Support Officer ASP David Ojuku Kamara met with stakeholders from both communities, including the Section Chief, community leaders, and members of the Local Policing Partnership Board (LPPB). During the engagement, LPPB member Mr. Essay Benjeh, popularly known as “LUC Benje,” was recognised for his dedication to community policing and elevated to serve as the Regional Commander of the LPPB for Sandor Chiefdom. Representatives of Tankor and Musaya communities pledged to forgive one another, maintain peace, and avoid further violence. They also agreed to allow the traditional authorities of Sandor Chiefdom to determine ownership of the disputed land through customary procedures. Community leaders commended the Motema Police Division for its timely intervention, describing the move as a major step toward restoring harmony and strengthening unity. The Police Division reaffirmed its commitment to conflict resolution, community policing, and maintaining peace and security across its operational area.

Diamond Stars secured their place in the Leone Rock Premier League for another season after a dramatic 3-2 victory over Bai Bureh Warriors FC in a final-day thriller played at the Port Loko Stadium on Saturday, 18 July 2026. The visiting side made a fast start, with Abubakarr Fornah opening the scoring in the early minutes of the match to give Diamond Stars an important lead and ease early pressure. Buoyed by the goal, Diamond Stars grew in confidence and created several opportunities before the break. Their persistence was rewarded after halftime when substitute Mohamed Thorley produced a brilliant individual effort to double their advantage and make it 2-0. Bai Bureh Warriors responded strongly and showed great determination to fight their way back into the contest. Following tactical changes from the bench, Koliko P. Haba reduced the deficit after converting a pass from Sanpha Kamara to give the Warriors renewed hope. The match continued at a high tempo, with both sides battling for control as the importance of the result became increasingly clear. Bai Bureh Warriors continued to push forward, and Sanpha Kamara completed the comeback by scoring the equaliser to make it 2-2. However, Diamond Stars refused to surrender their advantage. Thorley delivered the decisive moment, scoring his second goal of the afternoon to restore the visitors’ lead and secure a crucial 3-2 victory. The result confirmed Diamond Stars’ survival in the Leone Rock Premier League, while Bai Bureh Warriors ended the season in a strong position, finishing the campaign with 57 points.

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.

The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has deployed 74 newly trained police recruits to Kenema Division and other parts of the Eastern Region as part of efforts to strengthen security operations and enhance public safety. The deployment, which took place on Saturday, 18 July 2026, follows the successful completion of the recruits’ first phase of basic police training. Speaking on behalf of the Regional Police Commander for the East, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Joe Kamanda Gbongay, who was engaged in another strategic security assignment, the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of Kenema Division, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Emmanuel Kpulun, welcomed the new officers and commended the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, for his continued efforts in improving the operational capacity of the Force. CSP Kpulun told the recruits that their deployment to the Eastern Region reflects the confidence placed in them by the leadership of the Sierra Leone Police. He urged them to uphold the core values of the Force by demonstrating professionalism, discipline, integrity, and respect for human rights in the execution of their responsibilities. The Kenema Division Commander reminded the recruits that policing is a service to the people, encouraging them to build strong relationships with communities, support community policing initiatives, and play an active role in preventing crime and maintaining public order. Responding on behalf of the recruits, the newly deployed officers expressed appreciation to the police leadership for the opportunity to serve the nation. They assured the authorities and residents of the Eastern Region of their commitment to carrying out their duties with dedication, diligence, and professionalism. The deployment of the 74 recruits is expected to strengthen manpower across the seven police divisions within the Eastern Region, improve operational effectiveness, enhance community engagement, and support efforts to maintain peace and security.

Western United have been crowned champions of the 2026 National Division One Playoffs after securing a convincing 2-0 victory over Waterloo FC in the final played at the Port Loko Mini Stadium. Western United delivered a commanding performance throughout the match to lift the championship trophy, capping off an impressive playoff campaign and confirming their status as the competition’s best-performing side. Although Waterloo FC fell short in the final, the club received praise for its remarkable journey through the playoffs, which culminated in a well-deserved place in the championship match. By reaching the final, both Western United and Waterloo FC have officially secured promotion to the 2026/27 Sierra Leone Premier League. The two clubs will replace the teams relegated from the country’s top-flight league at the end of the current season. The conclusion of the National Division One Playoffs marks the end of a highly competitive campaign that showcased emerging football talent from across Sierra Leone. Both promoted sides will now turn their attention to preparing for the challenges of Premier League football. The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) congratulated Western United on winning the Division One Playoffs title and commended both clubs for earning promotion. The association also wished Western United and Waterloo FC success as they prepare to compete in the 2026/27 Sierra Leone Premier League season.

Two Men Remanded in Freetown Over Alleged Le1.6M Business Fraud Two men, Alhaji Saiku and Momoud Barrie, have been remanded to the male correctional facility in Freetown following their appearance at Pademba Road Court No. 1 on charges of business fraud. The case concerns an alleged incident involving Le1,691,750, which prosecutors claim was obtained from Hassan Serry Kamara between 22 November 2025 and 21 April 2026. According to the prosecution, the defendants were based at No. 9 Sackville Street and allegedly deceived Kamara by promising to remit funds to the People’s Republic of China for business transactions, despite having no intention to do so. The defendants face three counts: obtaining money by false pretenses, fraudulent conversion, and conspiracy to defraud. Principal Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah presided over the proceedings and issued a bench warrant for a third, absent defendant. Due to this individual’s absence, the charges were not read to them in court. Prosecuting counsel Elvis Kargbo Esq. successfully requested the warrant, leading to the remand of Saiku and Barrie. The case is being handled by defense counsel Jessie M. Jengo Esq. and has been adjourned until 24 July 2026.