Three Police Officers Suspended Over Portee Wharf Cocaine Investigation
By VOS Investigation Desk
Three police officers, including two senior officers and a constable, have been suspended in connection with the ongoing investigation into the alleged cocaine seizure at Portee Wharf, according to findings by Voice of Salone Newspaper.
Sources familiar with the matter disclosed that the suspensions followed investigations launched by the SierraLeone Police Complaints,Discipline and Internal Investigations Department (CDIID) after Voice of Salone published reports raising concerns about the circumstances surrounding the alleged drug seizure and the handling of the case.
It is understood that the publication prompted the CDIID to commence a comprehensive investigation, resulting in several police officers being identified as persons of interest and invited for questioning. Statements were reportedly obtained from both senior and junior officers who were identified as persons of interest as the investigators sought to establish the facts surrounding the incident.
Information gathered by this newspaper indicates that those suspended include Superintendent Peeler, the Operational Support Division (OSD) Commander at the Kissy Police Division; Inspector Connie, the Division’s Operations Officer; and Constable Amara. The suspensions are believed to be administrative measures pending the outcome of the investigation.
Although authorities have not officially announced the conclusion of the inquiry, sources suggest that additional disciplinary action may be taken against other officers identified as persons of interest. It is also understood that investigators have obtained statements from the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of the Kissy Police Division, who is reportedly nearing retirement age.
Sources further allege that action is yet to be taken against other senior police officers whose names have surfaced during the course of the investigation.
The alleged cocaine seizure at Portee Wharf has generated significant public interest and intensified calls for transparency and accountability in the handling of narcotics-related cases. The findings of the investigation are expected to determine whether further disciplinary measures or criminal charges will be pursued against any individuals found culpable.
The Sierra Leone Police have yet to issue an official statement on the suspensions or the current status of the investigation. However, the matter remains under active review by the CDIID.
Voice of Salone will continue to follow developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.
