“The computers that the Chinese were using to manufacture those SIM cards are now in the possession of NATCOM. We have forensically recovered the database. For those SIM cards that belong to a specific mobile phone service operator, we realized that a proportion of 941 were never used and did not carry Know Your Customers (KYCs) identities,” he said.

With regard the quality of service, he went on to say that NATCOM is discussing with mobile phone operators to ensuring quality of service to customers, noting that because of NATCOM’s persistent engagement, the quality of service provided by mobile phone network operators has been significantly improved.

He added that customers should understand two things – ensuring that subscribers have affordable communication services because what the investors are not doing is not charity.

Chairman of the Board of Directors of NATCOM, Dr. Prince Harding, said his institution is doing everything to minimize SIM card fraud to the least.

“There are some people that want to deprive the nation and we want to ensure that the mobile network operators make their services affordable and efficient. NATCOM encourages fair competition,” he stated.

Minister of Information and Communications, Mohamed Rado Swarray, said since the Sierra Leone Cable Limited (SALCAB) made 48 percent reduction in its tariff, mobile phone networks have been urged and agreed to reduce tariff by 50 percent.

“We engaged the mobile phone network operators and internet providers to ensure that the reduction done by SALCAB is replicated on their tariff. President Bio is strongly interested in rural connectivity and he will stop at nothing to ensure it works for the benefit of all Sierra Leoneans,” he said.