Freetown 14th August 2026-The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning has handed over Mohamed Ansumana M. Dabeni to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) after CCTV cameras captured him stealing a bag containing over US$20,000 at the Ministry’s headquarters.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at the Ministry’s reception area. According to officials, Dabeni was seen on CCTV footage removing a bag belonging to an Egyptian national. The bag reportedly held more than US$20,000 in cash, making it one of the largest thefts recorded at the Ministry’s premises.
Although Dabeni left the building before the theft was discovered, a swift review of the CCTV footage identified him as the culprit. Ministry staff later apprehended him and handed him over to the police.
Officials confirmed that Dabeni has confessed to the crime but has refused to cooperate in returning the stolen money. He is currently in police custody as CID investigators pursue the case.
In a statement, the Ministry commended its staff for their vigilance and rapid response, assuring the public of its commitment to strengthening security measures at its offices.
