Freetown, 5 September 2026 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFAIC) has launched an urgent internal investigation into allegations that official Ministry documentation was misused in a visa application submitted to a diplomatic mission.
In a press release issued on 5 September 2026, the Ministry confirmed it has received a formal complaint about the alleged misuse. It also noted related concerns that have been raised publicly.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has set up an internal committee to investigate the matter without delay. The committee will review relevant documentation and procedures, establish the facts, and submit findings and recommendations.
The review will additionally examine current processes and safeguards for preparing, authorising, and transmitting official correspondence, including visa requests. The goal is to strengthen institutional controls where necessary.
The Ministry stated that any unauthorised use or breach of procedures, if confirmed, will be addressed through appropriate administrative or legal action.
It emphasised that the matter will be handled promptly, with respect for due process and without prejudice to the investigation’s outcome.
“The Ministry remains committed to the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and institutional responsibility,” the statement said. Further information will be released as appropriate.
This development occurs against a backdrop of ongoing public and institutional attention in Sierra Leone to the integrity of official travel and visa-related documents. Previous cases have involved probes into the irregular issuance of diplomatic and service passports, as well as warnings about scams in which fraudsters impersonate Ministry officials to offer visas, passports, or scholarships. Authorities, including the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, have previously stressed the need to protect the country’s diplomatic privileges and national reputation.
The MFAIC’s latest action signals an internal focus on tightening controls around official correspondence and visa support processes. No individuals have been named, and the investigation remains ongoing.
