Ministry of Information and Civic Education of Sierra Leone addresses key national concerns

*Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s Press Conference*

*Tuesday 12th November 2024*

*KEY HIGHLIGHTS*

The Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s press conference on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 addressed key national concerns and provided updates on significant government initiatives. Led by Minister Chernor Bah and attended by officials from the Ministry of Justice, the Financial Intelligence Agency, and the Sierra Leone Police, the briefing covered topics ranging from aviation safety and anti-money laundering efforts to police capacity-building and public advisories. Here are the main takeaways from the conference.

♦*Safety of Fly Sierra Leone’s 5N-BZZ Aircraft*
Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, addressed concerns raised by citizens regarding the safety of Fly Sierra Leone’s 5N-BZZ aircraft. He expressed appreciation to the public for their vigilance and assured them that the government, through the Civil Aviation Authority, has rigorously ensured that the aircraft adheres to all international safety standards. The Minister clarified that the reported incident was a runway excursion caused by heavy rains. He emphasized that the aircraft has completed maintenance checks in South Africa, and Sierra Leone aviation experts have conducted inspections in Nigeria, finding no significant issues. Minister Bah reiterated the government’s dedication to safety and strict compliance with international aviation regulations.

♦ *Government’s Fight Against Money Laundering, Trafficking, and Terrorism Financing*
Deputy Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, highlighted the government’s collaborative efforts in combating money laundering, human trafficking, and terrorism financing. He noted that the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice plays a key role on the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) board, contributing to policy development in these areas. The Ministry has partnered closely with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) to support investigations and enforce relevant laws. Legal support from the Attorney General’s office has been instrumental in the prosecution of crimes associated with money laundering and trafficking.

♦*Hosting of GIABA’s 42nd Technical Commission and Plenary Meeting*
Director General of the Financial Intelligence Agency, David Borbor, announced that Sierra Leone will host the 42nd Technical Commission and Plenary and the 29th Ministerial Committee Meeting of the Inter-governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA). This significant event will take place from 17th to 23rd November 2024 at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown and will attract over 150 delegates from 17 countries. DG Borbor emphasized that the meeting provides a platform for exchanging best practices, fostering collaboration, and strengthening the regional framework against money laundering and terrorism financing.

♦ *Major Risks and Sectoral Focus*
DG Borbor revealed that a homegrown assessment conducted by the FIA identified the banking system as the primary risk area for money laundering in Sierra Leone, followed by the precious minerals sector. To enhance compliance in the mineral sector, the FIA is collaborating with the National Mineral Agency (NMA). Efforts are ongoing to bolster regulatory measures and mitigate associated risks.

♦ *Updates on My Residual Income Global Scheme and Super Advertise*
Director General Borbor provided updates on payments to claimants involved in the My Residual Income Global Scheme, noting that these payments were made through a court-approved liquidation process. The funds used were those frozen by the FIA. He also disclosed that approximately NLe3.4 million associated with Super Advertise is currently frozen, pending the proper verification of investors.

♦ *Enhancing Police Investigation Capacity*
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Joan Bull Kamara, Head of the Legal and Justice Support Department of the Sierra Leone Police, reported ongoing efforts to enhance the capacity of police personnel to investigate crimes such as money laundering and human trafficking. Recent training sessions for senior police officers have been conducted to improve their investigative skills. ACP Bull Kamara announced that within the next two weeks, all senior crime officers will undergo further training to standardize and strengthen investigative practices. She highlighted the importance of public cooperation, urging citizens not to compromise ongoing investigations or judicial proceedings. Additionally, she emphasized the proactive measures taken by the police, including awareness campaigns to prevent crimes.

♦*Closing Remarks*
In concluding the press conference, Minister Chernor Bah warned citizens to remain vigilant against fraudulent schemes, particularly those that seem too good to be true. He advised the public to verify any such schemes with relevant authorities before engaging with them.