By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
Freetown, Sierra Leone, in a striking example of international law enforcement collaboration, interpol has apprehended two Guinean nationals in Freetown linked to an alleged child trafficking case that originated in Guinea. The arrests, executed on Thursday, April 3, 2025, underscore the power of cross-border cooperation in tackling transnational crime.
The suspects, accused of abducting a child in Guinea in March 2025, had fled to Sierra Leone to evade capture, acting on precise intelligence, interpol’s national central Bureau (NCB) in Freetown, working closely with the Sierra Leone police and Guinean authorities, tracked and detained the pair, following their arrest, the suspects were handed over to Guinean officials at the Gbalamuya work station, marking the culmination of a swift and coordinated operation.
The transfer was overseen by detective inspector stella Sarah Kargbo, with support from detective police constable Mohamed Mansaray and police constable Joseph, the team meticulously completed all required documentation, ensuring compliance with legal protocols for a smooth handover, representatives from interpol NCB Conakry received the suspects, while an officer from the Kambia Division Local unit command collected official records for further administrative and judicial action.
In an uplifting turn of events, the child at the center of the case has been reunited with their parents in Guinea. A medical examination confirmed the child’s good health, offering solace to the family and closure to a distressing ordeal.
Interpol Conakry officials lauded the professionalism and efficiency of their Sierra Leonean counterparts, this operation showcases the strength of cross-border partnerships in confronting crimes that transcend national boundaries, a spokesperson remarked, the successful collaboration highlights the deepening ties between Sierra Leone and Guinea in their shared commitment to regional security.
The handover concluded with a group photograph at Gbalamuya, a symbolic image of solidarity and resolve among the law enforcement teams.
This case serves as a potent reminder of the vital role international cooperation plays in protecting vulnerable populations and upholding justice, by swiftly apprehending the suspects and ensuring the child’s safe return, the operation reinforces the importance of robust security frameworks in West Africa, particularly in combating child trafficking a crime that preys on the region’s most defenseless.
As authorities in Guinea proceed with the investigation, the arrests in Freetown stand as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that collaborative efforts can deliver results in the fight against transnational crime.