Joint security sweep at Freetown port seizes 461 cartons of tramadol and tapentadol hydrochloride

On March 24, 2026, a coordinated operation involving the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), the National Revenue Authority, the Office of National Security, the Pharmacy Board, and the Sierra Leone Police resulted in the interception of four containers carrying a total of 461 cartons of controlled pain medications at Freetown Terminal Limited. The seizure occurred after a complete joint examination of incoming cargo at the terminal.
According to authorities, the consignments contained Tramadol and Tapentadol hydrochloride in 225 mg and 250 mg formulations, respectively. The containers’ importer has been identified as Jalim Bah Investment, which is located at 80 Fourah Bay Road in Freetown.
The container information provided by officials is as follows:
• Container 1 (HASU1264025) contains 100 cartons of Tramadol.
• Tramadol (114 cartons) in Container 2 (MRKU6998749)
• Container 3 (TCLU3516278) holds 147 Tramadol cartons.
• Container 4 (SUDU7509283) contains 100 cartons of Tramadol.
The total number of Tramadol cartons seized was 461.
The interception highlights the ongoing collaboration between port authorities and security stakeholders to prevent the illegal entry of controlled substances into Sierra Leone. Officials say the operation demonstrates continued vigilance and support for the government’s efforts to protect public health and maintain port operations integrity. Additional investigative and legal steps are expected as agencies process the seized cargo and determine next steps.