The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has responded to allegations from Nigeria that a container linked to Sierra Leone was found carrying cocaine.
In a detailed statement issued today, the authority revealed that the container left Freetown completely empty and arrived in Lagos in the same condition, challenging the allegations circulating in the media.
According to SLPHA, the said container, which is a standard 20-foot dry unit, was handled by shipping company Grimaldi.
They further explained that the container discharged from the Port of Freetown on September 13, 2025, delivered full to the consignee by October 8, and returned empty to the FTL terminal on October 11.
The vessel Grande Ghana 0225 inspected and sealed the container on October 24 before it departed Freetown empty, weighing 2,200 kilograms, en route to Lagos via Cotonou.
Grimaldi confirmed the vessel berthed in Lagos on October 29, and the container was discharged empty on October 30, with the operation concluding by October 31. The container was officially flagged on November 7, eight days after discharge.
The SLPHA emphasized it has not received any formal notification from the Nigerian Ports Authority and has requested official confirmation. The authority reaffirmed its commitment to transparent and accountable port operations, seeking to reassure the public and international partners.
This statement comes amid growing concerns over drug trafficking through West African ports, putting a spotlight on shipping security and cross-border accountability.
