A major drug smuggling attempt was foiled at the Jendema Border Crossing Point on Thursday, July 17, when a female traveler was arrested with a large quantity of cannabis
The woman, identified as Hawa Conteh, was traveling to Monrovia in neighboring Liberia when border officers searched her bags as part of a regular security check.
During the search, officers found 40 separate packets each weighing one kilogram containing dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa. In addition to the packets two plastic bags filled with cannabis seeds were also found in her possession.
Conteh was taken into custody on the spot. Both she and the seized items were handed over to the Mano River Police Division which has now taken over the investigation.
Authorities say this arrest is part of wider efforts to stop drug movement across the Sierra Leone and Liberia border. The operation was carried out by a joint team of customs officers immigration and other border agencies working together at Jendema.
Mujiru I.I. Kallon Customs Manager at Jendema and Head of Joint Border Operations for Sierra Leone thanked all security officers involved in the operation. He noted that strong cooperation between different agencies is key in preventing cross-border crime.
He also said his team will continue to improve checks at the border to protect communities from illegal activities.
Jendema is one of the main border crossings between Sierra Leone and Liberia, with many people and goods passing through every day.
Authorities say they are increasing efforts to monitor both travelers and cargo at this important crossing.
Conteh remains in police custody as investigations continue.
O.k