By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara

A joint security team comprising personnel of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has arrested two men at the Mile 38 Checkpoint for allegedly stealing cattle.

The suspects were apprehended on 27 February 2026 during a routine security operation led by Superintendent Foday Sorie Fofanah as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen highway surveillance and curb criminal activities along major transport routes.

According to security sources, the joint team intercepted a vehicle bearing registration number AUS 917 during a routine stop-and-search exercise at the checkpoint. The vehicle was driven by Abass Kanu of JB Drive, Campbell Town, Waterloo, with Abdulai Kabia of Lunsar also on board.

A thorough search of the vehicle uncovered three live cattle and one dead animal, bringing the total number of animals recovered to four. The cattle were reportedly found with their mouths tied, raising strong suspicions that they had been stolen prior to transportation.

Security personnel immediately detained the two occupants of the vehicle for further questioning. The animals were secured as exhibits pending verification of ownership and further investigation.

Police confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody and are assisting investigators as inquiries continue. Authorities say efforts are underway to trace the rightful owners of the recovered cattle and determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft.

The arrest forms part of intensified joint security operations aimed at combating livestock theft and other criminal activities along key transit corridors, particularly in areas linking provincial districts to the capital.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 4th March 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)