By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID), has announced a full-scale investigation into the alleged misuse of a Sierra Leone diplomatic passport by a Turkish national reportedly involved in criminal and drug-related activities.
According to a public notice issued on Monday, October 13, 2025, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) confirmed that it had taken note of international and local media reports from Dutch, German, and Sierra Leonean media outlets linking the foreign national to a Sierra Leone-issued diplomatic passport.
The statement described the allegations as extremely serious, noting that protecting the integrity of Sierra Leone’s diplomatic privileges and national image is a top Government priority.
Acting on the directive of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Immigration Department has launched a comprehensive investigation to establish how the individual obtained the passport, verify the authenticity of any documents presented and identify any procedural lapses or misconduct that may have occurred during the issuance process.
The notice further stated that beyond this specific case, the SLID will also carry out a nationwide audit of all diplomatic passports to ensure proper accountability, transparency and to prevent future cases of abuse.
“The Sierra Leone Immigration Department reaffirms its unwavering commitment to integrity, transparency and upholding the nation’s image,” the statement read. “Any confirmed wrongdoing will attract swift disciplinary and legal action.”
The Office of the Chief Immigration Officer, which issued the notice, assured the public that the Government remains resolute in maintaining strict oversight over the issuance and use of Sierra Leone’s diplomatic documents.
This move underscores the Bio administration’s ongoing efforts to reinforce good governance, uphold international standards and protect Sierra Leone’s reputation on the global stage.
