By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
Security personnel attached to a joint deployment of the Sierra Leone Police and military forces have arrested a motorcycle operator at the Wanjama checkpoint in Kenema Division after he was allegedly found in possession of illicit drugs during a routine stop-and-search operation.
The incident occurred at about 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, 14 May 2026, as security officers intensified surveillance measures aimed at combating the movement and distribution of prohibited substances across the region.
The suspect, identified as Ansumana Kanneh, a resident of 18 Koromba Lane, Blama Town in Small Bo Chiefdom, Kenema District, was reportedly intercepted during routine security checks at the checkpoint.
According to security sources, officers conducting the operation discovered one hundred tablets of tramadol concealed in the suspect’s possession. Tramadol is a controlled pharmaceutical drug commonly associated with substance abuse due to its addictive properties and serious health implications when improperly used.
Following the discovery, security officers immediately took the suspect into custody, while the seized tablets were confiscated and retained as evidence pending further investigation.
Authorities confirmed that the matter has since been transferred to the Kenema Police Station, where formal investigations are currently ongoing. Relevant law enforcement and security institutions have also been notified as part of coordinated efforts to address the growing concern surrounding illicit drug trafficking and abuse.
Security officials described the arrest as part of broader nationwide efforts to strengthen checkpoint surveillance, disrupt drug distribution networks, and enhance public safety.
They further reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying operations against individuals involved in the trafficking and circulation of illegal substances, warning that law enforcement agencies will continue to clamp down on criminal activities threatening communities across the country.
The latest interception comes amid increasing national concern over the widespread abuse of tramadol and other narcotic substances, particularly among young people, with authorities continuing to call for stronger public cooperation in the fight against drug-related crimes.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 18th May 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
