Koidu, Sierra Leone — In a significant operation under the government’s intensified nationwide compliance drive, the Commissioner of Labour and his enforcement team intercepted more than 10 Chinese nationals at the Mambudu Checkpoint in Kono District.
The individuals were reportedly en route to Kumaroh Village to engage in gold and diamond mining activities without the required Unified Work and Residence Permits, in violation of Sierra Leone’s immigration and labour laws.
The foreign nationals have been handed over to the Sierra Leone Police Headquarters in Koidu for further investigation and potential legal action, including possible deportation or prosecution.
This interception is part of broader government efforts launched earlier in 2026 to ensure all foreign nationals living and working in Sierra Leone comply with the country’s labour and immigration regulations. The Unified Work and Residence Permit regime, supported by a new online application platform (unifiedpermit.gov.sl) rolled out in January 2026, aims to modernize processes, enhance transparency, and strengthen oversight of expatriate employment.
Commissioner of Labour officials stressed that “it is no longer business as usual” for foreigners to enter, reside, or work in the country without proper documentation. The enforcement actions are described as essential for protecting national security, ensuring lawful employment opportunities for Sierra Leoneans, and safeguarding the nation’s valuable natural resources from unregulated exploitation.
Context on Mining and Foreign Involvement in Sierra Leone
Kono District, in Sierra Leone’s Eastern Province, is a historically significant area for diamond and gold mining, contributing substantially to the national economy but also facing challenges with illegal artisanal operations. Chinese nationals have been active participants in the country’s mining sector for years, with both legitimate investments and documented cases of illicit activities.
Past incidents include the 2018 arrest and planned deportation of dozens of Chinese nationals accused of involvement in illegal gold mining and child labour in areas like Tonkolili and Kono districts. More recently, the government has conducted multiple crackdowns on unlicensed mining, including operations in Penguia Chiefdom and the destruction of illegal dredges by the Environmental Protection Agency, often citing environmental degradation, mercury pollution, and threats to local communities.
The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, in coordination with immigration authorities and police, continues its compliance inspections across the country. Foreign nationals and employers are urged to regularize their status promptly through the official digital platform to avoid penalties.
More details on the current case, including the outcome of the police investigation, are expected as the story develops.
