By Mariama Bundu
The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Office of National Security (ONS), has responded to international reports concerning a massive cocaine seizure by Spanish authorities involving a vessel that reportedly departed Freetown before being intercepted off the coast of Western Sahara.
According to Spanish authorities, the vessel identified as Arconian (4,347 dwt) is believed to have been carrying between 30 and 45 tonnes of cocaine in what could become Spain’s largest-ever cocaine seizure.
Official maritime records reportedly indicate that the cargo ship, registered in the Comoros Islands, is linked to a Sierra Leone-based company identified as Serenity Shipping SL Ltd, located at 20 Off Main Motor Road, Portor Drive, Juba Hill, Freetown.
Reports further state that the vessel departed Freetown on 22 April 2026 before it was intercepted on 1 May 2026 while allegedly en route to the Mediterranean.
In response to growing media attention, the Office of National Security on Thursday, 7 May 2026, issued a press release confirming that the country’s security sector has taken note of the reports and has commenced preliminary investigations.
“The Security Sector has noted recent media reports about a cocaine seizure by Spanish police involving a vessel registered in the Comoros Islands, which reportedly departed Freetown on 22 April 2026 before it was intercepted en route to the Mediterranean,” the statement read.
The ONS disclosed that both the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority and the Sierra Leone Police have not yet received any official communication from Spanish authorities regarding the matter.
However, the statement emphasized that local authorities have already begun inter-agency assessments and inquiries aimed at establishing the facts surrounding the vessel, its voyage history, and its movements through Sierra Leone’s ports.
“Investigations are ongoing, and the relevant authorities will undertake all necessary verification processes to determine the full circumstances of the matter,” the release added.
The Office of National Security further reassured the public and international partners that Sierra Leone remains committed to combating transnational organised crime and maintaining international security standards.
“The Security Sector assures the public and international partners that this matter is being treated seriously and professionally. Sierra Leone remains committed to combating transnational organised crime and upholding international security standards,” the statement concluded.
The ONS also encouraged members of the public with credible information relating to the incident to contact the Head of the Criminal Investigation Department on +232 78583069.
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