By Saidu Jalloh, Reporter D.S
Authorities in Bo have apprehended a truck and two vans allegedly involved in the illicit transportation of palm oil believed to have been siphoned from shipments of Socfin Agricultural Company (SL) Ltd., a prominent producer operating in Sahn Malen.
Sources indicate that this incident is connected to a suspected theft syndicate active along the Lungi-Koribondo road, reportedly involving traders from Koribondo and Jiama. The alleged scheme involves tanker drivers diverting portions of their cargo to roadside buyers for unlawful resale while en route to Freetown.
On the night of February 19, 2026, routine haulage tankers left Socfin’s facilities in Malen for Freetown. Following intelligence reports, authorities conducted a raid between 10:00 p.m. and 10:45 p.m. at a site along the Lungi–Koribondo road, discovering several blue drums and yellow plastic containers scattered nearby. Some of these containers were filled with red palm oil, while others were empty, seemingly awaiting filling.
The trucks and their cargo were subsequently transported to the Bo West Division Police Headquarters for further examination. However, concerns have been raised regarding the integrity of this investigation, particularly under the oversight of Assistant Inspector General of Police for the Southern Region, Andrew Mustapha Kamara.
An anonymous insider expressed skepticism about the handling of the case, stating, “Na money dae stop nonsense,” implying that financial incentives may have affected the investigation’s direction.
Remarkably, the three vehicles and their cargo were released by February 24, less than 24 hours after their seizure, without a complete inventory of the palm oil or verification of ownership. Critics argue that the palm oil was clearly identifiable as belonging to Socfin and assert that law enforcement prioritized the release of suspects and goods rather than conducting a thorough investigation.
In contrast, observers pointed to a previous incident involving stolen diesel, where suspects and evidence were retained for a more extended period before any release.
This swift resolution in the palm oil case has further fueled allegations of monetary influence, as reiterated by the insider’s comment on the matter.
Concerns are growing regarding the level of protection afforded to legitimate businesses in Sierra Leone, especially large agricultural investors like Socfin. The company has consistently advocated for enhanced security measures to combat theft and has initiated community engagement programs to reduce pilfering.
If the allegations surrounding the February 23 interception are confirmed, critics warn that they could signify a grave failure by law enforcement to safeguard private investments and uphold justice.
Calls are now mounting for the Inspector General of Police to conduct an independent inquiry into the events surrounding the Ngelehun checkpoint, particularly regarding the handling of the seized vehicles and the palm oil.
Experts note that Sierra Leone’s economy relies heavily on agricultural investments, with companies like Socfin generating employment and infrastructure development while contributing significantly to export revenue.
The ability to protect such enterprises from theft and ensure transparent law enforcement is essential for maintaining economic growth and fostering investor confidence. Until a comprehensive examination is completed, questions about the adequacy of protections for businesses vital to national development are likely to persist.
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