Freetown, 14 July 2026 – The Judiciary of Sierra Leone has issued a strong directive tightening control over the execution of court processes and arrests, warning that no such action should be carried out without the explicit approval of the Chief Justice.
In a memo dated 14 July 2026, Deputy Master and Registrar of the High Court, Hutaimatu F. Christian-Moses, conveyed the order to the Deputy Undersheriff on behalf of the Honourable Chief Justice.
The directive states that “no execution or arrest shall be done by the Undersheriff’s Office without His approval,” stressing that failure to comply will attract “serious consequences.”
The move signals a stricter oversight role by the Chief Justice in the enforcement of judicial orders, aiming to ensure accountability and prevent irregularities in the execution of court processes.
The directive underscores the importance of centralised authority in sensitive judicial matters, particularly arrests and enforcement actions, which carry significant implications for justice delivery and public trust in the courts.
The memo was copied to the Chief Justice, reaffirming his direct involvement in monitoring compliance.
