Freetown, 14th November, 2025 – The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has issued a formal statement addressing media reports from Nigeria alleging that a container linked to Sierra Leone was found with cocaine at the Ports and Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) in Lagos.

The container in question, GCNU1332851, was reportedly flagged in Nigeria on November 7, sparking speculation about its origin and contents. However, the SLPHA has clarified that it has not received any official notification from the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) confirming the presence of narcotics. A formal request for information has been submitted, and the Authority is awaiting a response.

In the meantime, Grimaldi Group, the shipping company responsible for the container, has confirmed that the unit departed Sierra Leone empty and was discharged in Lagos in the same condition.

To ensure transparency, the SLPHA released verified movement records from Grimaldi and the Freetown Terminal Limited (FTL), detailing the container’s journey:

  • The container is a standard 20ft dry unit.
  • It was discharged at the Port of Freetown on September 13, 2025, from the vessel Grande Atlantico.
  • Delivered full to the consignee on October 8, and returned empty to FTL on October 11.
  • Inspected and sealed by the Grande Ghana 0225 crew on October 24, before loading.
  • The container weighed 2,200kg, consistent with an empty 20ft unit.
  • The vessel departed Freetown on October 24, en route to Lagos via Cotonou.

Grimaldi Nigeria further confirmed:

  • The vessel berthed in Lagos on October 29.
  • Operations began on October 30, and the container was discharged empty at 13:00.
  • Port operations concluded on October 31.
  • The container was flagged eight days later, on November 7.

“The Authority remains committed to transparent and accountable port operations,” the statement concluded, emphasizing its dedication to due process and international cooperation.

The incident has raised broader concerns about regional port security and the need for coordinated efforts to combat transnational trafficking.