Freetown, Sierra Leone – June 20, 2025 – The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has uncovered what it describes as a “concerning scheme” involving the attempted diversion of government revenue through the collusion of certain NRA staff, commercial bank tellers, and other external actors.
In a public notice issued on Thursday, the NRA revealed that a formal complaint has already been filed with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Sierra Leone Police, and several individuals are currently assisting the CID with investigations.
“We are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness,” NRA stated. “Any person, whether within or outside the institution, found to be involved in this breach of trust will be held accountable. No stone will be left unturned.”
According to the NRA, the plot involved attempts to reroute funds meant for the national coffers. Commercial banks across the country have been alerted, and are said to be cooperating fully with authorities.
The Authority has also launched an internal review of its systems and processes.
“This is not just about punishing wrongdoing; it’s also about fixing the cracks in the system,” NRA noted. “We are putting strong reforms in motion to ensure this never happens again.”
In the meantime, the NRA has reiterated its policy on payment procedures, warning the public that:
* All cash payments to the NRA must not exceed Fifty Thousand New Leones (NLe 50,000.00).
* Any payments above that amount must be made through crossed cheque or official electronic platforms into the Government Revenue Account.
“Failure to comply with these rules will attract serious penalties, including the suspension of clearance privileges and potential legal action,” the Authority warned.
Citizens are encouraged to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity using the NRA’s official channels.
“The NRA remains steadfast in its mandate to assess, collect and account for government revenue. We assure the public that we will continue to lead by example, fight corruption, and restore confidence in the tax system,” NRA concluded.
