Freetown, 10th April 2026 – The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has reinforced its role in combating illicit maritime trafficking and organized crime by hosting a two-day practical training at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay.
The exercise, organized in collaboration with the European Union-funded Seaport Cooperation Project (SEACOP), brought together officers from the Office of National Security (ONS), Sierra Leone Police, Navy, Interpol, and the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU).
Training sessions focused on real-life scenarios, including the detection of illegal drugs and the handling of unaccounted persons onboard vessels. With SLPHA providing a vessel and operational environment, participants demonstrated improved skills and readiness to tackle transnational maritime crime.
Officials say the initiative strengthens Sierra Leone’s commitment to global maritime security and enhances cooperation among national and international stakeholders in safeguarding the country’s waters.
