Freetown, 10th October 2025— The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has firmly dismissed recent social media claims alleging the smuggling of sixteen containers through the Freetown Port, describing the reports as “false, misleading, and completely unfounded.”

In an official statement issued this week, the Authority clarified that no such incident has occurred within its operational areas and warned that the circulation of such misinformation appears to be a deliberate attempt to undermine public trust in the institution and its leadership.

“The SLPHA does not operate on Sundays, contrary to the claims being circulated,” the statement read. “All official port operations are strictly conducted on designated working days.”

The Authority further noted that the viral reports failed to provide any container numbers or shipment details to substantiate the allegations. It emphasized that all cargo entering or exiting the port is subject to rigorous customs and security protocols, including advanced tracking systems jointly managed by the SLPHA, the National Revenue Authority (Customs Department), the Sierra Leone Police, and other relevant agencies.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability, the SLPHA urged the public to disregard the baseless claims and rely solely on verified updates from its official communication channels.

The Ports Authority reiterated its focus on promoting efficiency, integrity, and modernization in line with the Government’s national development agenda