Freetown, 19th May 2026 — Sierra Leone’s Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) has confirmed that the vessel intercepted by Spanish authorities last month did depart Freetown, but stressed that no illegal cargo left the country’s shores.
CSP Michael J.K. Laggah, head of TOCU, told reporters at the Sierra Leone Police’s weekly press briefing that investigations show the alleged cocaine shipment did not originate from Sierra Leone. Authorities believe the country’s weak maritime monitoring beyond 200 nautical miles may have been exploited by transnational criminal networks.
Spanish officials reported that the MV Arconian, flagged in Comoros, departed Freetown on April 22 and was intercepted on May 1, some 430 nautical miles south of the Canary Islands. The seizure included 30,215 kilograms of cocaine packed into 1,279 bales, with a street value of €812.2 million.
Preliminary investigations by authorities in Sierra Leone established that the vessel, officially listed as MV Arconian arrived in Freetown on April 17 and underwent routine inspections by competent authorities. Cargo manifests confirmed the loading of 1,151 metric tons of palm kernel tanks, 250 metric tons of marine diesel fuel, and 315 metric tons of fresh water.
The vessel departed on April 22 with 17 crew members. However, Spanish authorities later reported arresting 23 crew members, raising questions about six unaccounted individuals who may have boarded after leaving Sierra Leone.
Officials emphasized that port records, CCTV footage, cargo manifests, and terminal operator reports showed no evidence of narcotics being concealed during the vessel’s stay. They also noted that the alleged owner, Serenity Shipping Company, is not registered in Sierra Leone.
Investigators highlighted that the vessel’s nine‑day voyage exceeded the typical six‑day duration, suggesting possible irregular activities outside Sierra Leonean waters. Authorities believe the disparity, combined with the presence of additional crew, points to exploitation of weak maritime monitoring systems.
While Sierra Leone has not yet been formally contacted by Spanish authorities, the government has reached out through diplomatic channels and international partners. Officials pledged to continue a professional and impartial investigation, fully cooperating with foreign counterparts.
The public has been encouraged to provide any information that may assist the ongoing inquiry through the Office of National Security.
