Freetown, October 13, 2025 – The Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) has announced the launch of a full investigation into allegations that a Turkish national, recently arrested in Europe on drug-related charges, was found in possession of a Sierra Leonean diplomatic passport.
The announcement follows widespread reports from Dutch, German, and Sierra Leonean media linking the suspect to international criminal activities.
Turkish authorities over the weekend released photos of Abdullah Alp Üstün, also known by the alias “Don Vito,” who was extradited from Dubai to Turkey over alleged involvement in international cocaine trafficking and other organized crimes. Reports circulating online suggested that Üstün was carrying a Sierra Leonean diplomatic passport, sparking public concern and debate.
In an official statement, the Immigration Department said the government was treating the matter with the highest level of seriousness.
“Protecting the integrity of Sierra Leone’s diplomatic privileges and national reputation is a top priority,” the release noted.
By direct order of President Julius Maada Bio, SLID has set up an inquiry to determine how the individual obtained the passport, assess the authenticity of supporting documents, and uncover any procedural lapses or misconduct.
Chief Immigration Officer, speaking on behalf of the department, emphasized: *l“We will leave no stone unturned in this investigation. If any wrongdoing is established, those involved will face swift disciplinary and legal action.”
The department further disclosed that beyond the current case, a broader audit of all diplomatic passports will be conducted to ensure accountability and prevent future abuse.
“This issue goes beyond one individual. We are reviewing the entire system to safeguard our country’s image,” the statement stressed.
The Immigration Department reiterated its commitment to integrity, transparency, and upholding Sierra Leone’s international reputation.
Meanwhile, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, has firmly denied allegations that a suspected drug trafficker arrested in Turkey was in possession of a Sierra Leonean passport.
In his statement, Kabba stressed that there is no evidence to confirm that the accused criminal held either a diplomatic or ordinary Sierra Leonean passport. He further emphasized the importance of verification in safeguarding the credibility of Sierra Leone’s diplomatic identity.
“Any such claim would be fully verified if formally brought to my attention,” the minister noted, highlighting his ministry’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the country’s diplomatic system.
The issue has drawn attention to the wider problem of forged passports and fraudulent claims of diplomatic immunity, which can tarnish the reputation of legitimate governments and complicate international relations.
Kabba reminded the public that diplomatic privileges are reserved for officially accredited personnel and cannot be extended to individuals operating outside legal and recognized frameworks.
Üstün, the man at the center of the controversy, is reported to have ties with Jos Leijdekkers, a Dutch national described as one of Europe’s most wanted drug kingpins. Leijdekkers is alleged to have connections in Sierra Leone, though authorities in Freetown have yet to comment publicly on those claims.
