By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
Seventeen people have been arrested for alleged involvement in illegal mining, unauthorised entry and other unlawful activities inside the Outamba‑Kilimi National Park (OKNP). Among those arrested were five women and a minor.
The arrests took place on Thursday, August 27, 2026, during a joint operation carried out by the National Protected Area Authority (NPAA) and the Conservation Trust Fund (CTF). Security support came from the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF). The patrol was led by the NPAA Executive Director together with the Authority’s Law Enforcement and Compliance Manager.
According to NPAA officials, all 17 suspects were taken into custody during the patrol and are being questioned over their alleged activities within the park. The five women arrested are assisting police with investigations at the Regional Police Headquarters in the North East Region, Mena Hills, Makeni.
The NPAA Law Enforcement and Compliance Manager confirmed that charges will be brought against the suspects once police investigations are completed. He explained that the arrests are part of wider efforts by the Authority and its partners to enforce environmental laws and protect Sierra Leone’s natural resources. He added that illegal mining, encroachment and unauthorised access continue to pose serious threats to the ecological balance of protected areas.
The NPAA Executive Director issued a warning to individuals engaged in illegal activities within Outamba‑Kilimi National Park. He said the arrests should serve as a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated. He further stressed that the Authority will continue to intensify law enforcement operations and strengthen collaboration with security agencies to safeguard national parks and other protected areas.
The NPAA also highlighted the importance of working closely with local communities and stakeholders to ensure effective protection and sustainable management of the country’s natural resources. Officials noted that community involvement is critical in preventing illegal activities and promoting compliance with environmental protection laws.
The arrests underline renewed efforts by environmental and security authorities to tackle illegal activities in protected areas. They also reinforce the determination of the NPAA and its partners to protect Sierra Leone’s national parks and preserve the country’s natural heritage for future generations.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 31st August 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
