By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara

A joint security operation by the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has led to the arrest of a man found in possession of a large quantity of suspected Free Healthcare drugs at the Mile 38 Checkpoint in Masiaka Division.

The operation, carried out on Friday, 14 February 2026, forms part of ongoing efforts by security forces to curb drug diversion, trafficking, and other illegal activities along major transit routes.

The team, led by Superintendent Foday Sorie Fofanah, apprehended Amadu Koroma, a resident of Masumana Village in Koya Chiefdom, Port Loko District.

According to security officials, Koroma was found with a substantial quantity of medicines believed to be part of the government’s Free Healthcare programme. Some of the drugs were reportedly expired at the time of seizure, raising concerns about potential risks to public health if such medicines were to enter the informal market.

During preliminary questioning, the suspect admitted ownership of the drugs. Both the suspect and the recovered exhibits have since been handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation, as authorities work to establish the source of the medicines and determine whether a wider network is involved.

Security officials reiterated their commitment to protecting the integrity of the Free Healthcare programme and warned that anyone found exploiting lifesaving medical supplies for personal gain will face the full force of the law. They also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, particularly along key transport corridors.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 23rd February 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)