The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has strengthened efforts to improve border security and revenue mobilization following the deployment of new operational vehicles to strategic customs outstations across the country.
On March 12, 2026, the NRA’s Customs Services Department (CSD) officially received three brand-new Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles to support customs operations at key border locations including Gbalamuya in Kambia District, Lungi in the Port Loko area, and Jendema in Pujehun District.
The vehicles were presented on behalf of the Commissioner General by the Director of Administration, Mrs. Fredricka M. Kella, during a brief handover ceremony. The initiative forms part of the authority’s ongoing efforts to strengthen operational capacity at border posts, improve revenue collection systems, and intensify the fight against smuggling and other illicit cross-border activities.
Speaking during the presentation, officials highlighted that border outstations often face operational challenges due to difficult terrain and limited mobility, which sometimes affects the efficiency of customs officers carrying out their duties. The deployment of the new vehicles is therefore expected to significantly improve the movement and responsiveness of officers stationed at these key entry and exit points.
Commissioner of the Customs Services Department, Mr. Tennyson Bio, expressed appreciation to the leadership of the NRA for the continued investment in operational resources. He noted that the vehicles will greatly enhance the department’s ability to effectively monitor border activities and ensure that customs regulations are properly enforced.
According to him, the Customs Services Department plays a critical role in safeguarding government revenue through the collection of import and export duties while also protecting the country from illegal trade practices. He emphasized that strengthening logistical support for customs officers is essential for achieving these objectives.
“With the deployment of these vehicles, our officers will be better equipped to navigate difficult terrains, respond quickly to border-related incidents, and carry out their monitoring and enforcement responsibilities more efficiently,” he said.
The Assistant Commissioner for Border Controls and Management, Mr. John B. Amara, who received the keys to the vehicles on behalf of the department, also underscored the importance of mobility in maintaining an effective customs presence along the country’s borders.
He explained that several border crossing points are located in remote areas where officers must frequently patrol long distances to monitor activities and detect potential smuggling operations. The new vehicles, he said, will enable customs personnel to maintain a stronger and more proactive presence at the borders.
Mr. Amara further stressed that improved logistics will contribute to ensuring that all goods entering and leaving the country are properly documented and that the appropriate duties are collected for the benefit of the state.
Border posts such as Gbalamuya and Jendema serve as major transit routes for goods and travelers moving between Sierra Leone and neighboring countries. As such, customs operations in these areas remain vital for both national security and economic stability.
Officials noted that smuggling and under-declaration of goods remain key challenges in border management, and enhancing surveillance capabilities is one of the measures being implemented to address these issues.
The deployment of the vehicles also aligns with broader institutional reforms aimed at modernizing customs operations, improving compliance among traders, and strengthening collaboration with other security agencies operating at border points.
The National Revenue Authority has in recent years continued to invest in operational tools, technology, and personnel training as part of its strategy to boost domestic revenue generation and improve the efficiency of tax and customs administration.
Authorities believe that strengthening logistics support for frontline customs officers will not only enhance border monitoring but will also contribute significantly to increasing government revenue and promoting lawful trade across the country’s borders.
With the new vehicles now set to be deployed to key outstations, customs officers are expected to intensify patrols, strengthen surveillance activities, and ensure that Sierra Leone’s borders remain secure while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.