AYV News, January 20, 2025
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Musa Kabba has clarified that the vehicle arrested by Guinean authorities on alleged drug possession, is a utility vehicle of the Embassy and not the official vehicle of the Ambassador with the registration number CMD1.
However, he confirmed that the Government of Sierra Leone has urgently recalled the Ambassador to Guinea, Alimamy Bangura, to provide a full account of the incident.
It can be recalled that the incident, which occurred on January 13, 2025, involved the seizure of a vehicle belonging to the Sierra Leone Embassy in Conakry by the Guinean authorities. The driver and another occupant of the vehicle were subsequently detained on suspicion of possessing substances believed to be cocaine.
In response to this serious development, the Government of Sierra Leone has launched a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and to hold all responsible parties accountable.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has issued a statement confirming the recall of Ambassador Bangura and emphasising the government’s commitment to cooperating with Guinean authorities to ascertain the facts of the matter.
The statement underscores the gravity of the situation and reiterates the government’s unwavering stance against drug trafficking. It affirms that anyone found guilty of violating Sierra Leonean and international drug trafficking laws will face the full force of the law.
The incident has raised significant concerns and prompted a swift response from the Sierra Leonean government. The recall of Ambassador Bangura demonstrates the government’s commitment to upholding the integrity of its diplomatic missions and ensuring the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel.
The government has assured the public that it will provide regular updates on the ongoing investigation and take all necessary measures to address this serious matter.
