Cocaine Scandal Involving Sierra Leone Embassy in Guinea: Facts and Clarifications

The Sierra Leonean government’s investigation has refuted claims that its ambassador to Guinea is under house arrest related to a drug scandal. Allegations of 380 kilograms of cocaine and $100,000 being found in the embassy vehicle were clarified by officials as false. Minister Kabba confirmed the ambassador’s absence of house arrest and promised a thorough review of the situation.

A recent claim by the Gleaner newspaper alleging that Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Guinea is under house arrest due to a drug-related incident has been deemed false. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Timothy Kabba, confirmed that drugs were found in a vehicle belonging to the embassy, but the specifics reported by the Gleaner concerning the amount of cocaine and cash were incorrect. The ambassador is currently in Sierra Leone and not under house arrest, contrary to reports circulating on social media.

On January 13, 2025, Guinea’s government notified Sierra Leone regarding an embassy vehicle impounded due to suspicion of cocaine possession. The Gleaner’s Facebook post on January 18 inaccurately claimed that Ambassador Alimamy Hassan Bangura had been placed under house arrest after his driver was caught with cocaine and cash. The report sparked widespread reactions among citizens, who expressed concern over the incident.

The Sierra Leone government is investigating the drug scandal that has put its ambassador’s reputation at stake. The Minister of Foreign Affairs stated that seven suitcases of drugs and $2,000 were discovered in the vehicle, differing significantly from claims of 380 kilograms of cocaine and $100,000. This investigation is aimed at determining accountability and transparency in the matter.

Minister Kabba and Chernor Bah, Minister of Information, both clarified that the Ambassador is not under house arrest and has been proactive in addressing the situation. They emphasized ongoing collaboration with Guinean authorities to resolve the issue and highlighted that lack of evidence exists supporting the newspaper’s claims. They assured citizens that thorough investigations are underway to dispel misinformation.

In summary, the Gleaner’s allegations regarding the Sierra Leone Ambassador to Guinea being under house arrest are unfounded. While there has been a legitimate investigation concerning drug possession linked to embassy operations, there is no substantiated evidence of the ambassador being placed under house arrest. The Sierra Leone government continues to address the situation by assuring the public of a diligent investigation.

The controversy emerged following an incident involving the Sierra Leone Embassy in Guinea, where a vehicle was implicated in a drug possession case. Allegations surfaced on social media regarding the ambassador’s involvement and his supposed house arrest. Given the serious nature of the claims, the Sierra Leonean government undertook an investigation to clarify the circumstances. The response aims to maintain international credibility amid escalating concerns surrounding the incident.

The investigation into the Sierra Leone Embassy vehicle incident indicates the absence of evidence supporting claims of the ambassador’s house arrest or the specific quantities of drugs reported. Minister Kabba’s reassurances and the official statements from government officials highlight the dedication to transparency in addressing this scandal. The government is taking steps to ensure appropriate measures are enforced against any individuals involved in illicit activities.

Original Source: dubawa.org