Security authorities have intensified efforts to combat human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment schemes following a major police operation in Waterloo that led to the arrest of twelve individuals suspected of involvement in a QNET-linked trafficking and scam network.
The development came to light after the Minister of Internal Affairs, AIG (Rtd.) Morie Lengor Esq., received an intelligence report outlining the outcome of coordinated police raids conducted in several locations across Waterloo. The report detailed the activities of a suspected transnational criminal network allegedly involved in human trafficking, fraudulent investment schemes, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
The operation, which took place on Thursday, 11th June 2026, was carried out by a joint team of officers from the Waterloo Police Division under the leadership of Local Unit Commander, Superintendent Bankolay Mansaray. According to police authorities, the exercise formed part of an ongoing crackdown on organized criminal activities and the growing presence of suspected QNET operatives within Waterloo and neighboring communities.
During the raid at Lovers Corner in Waterloo, police officers discovered a group of foreign nationals comprising both men and women residing in premises believed to have been used as operational bases by the suspected network. Following interviews, screening procedures, and preliminary investigations, officers identified several individuals as suspected members of the organization.
Twelve suspects, including three women and nine men, were subsequently arrested and taken into police custody. Authorities disclosed that a number of other individuals believed to be connected to the network managed to evade arrest and are currently being pursued by security personnel.
Superintendent Mansaray explained that the operation was based on intelligence gathered over a period of time and emphasized that law enforcement agencies remain committed to dismantling criminal networks that threaten public safety and national security. He further noted that all arrested suspects have been transferred to the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU) headquarters at Hastings, where comprehensive investigations are underway.
Receiving the intelligence report, Minister Morie Lengor commended the police for their swift response and professionalism in addressing the matter. He reiterated the Government of Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to combating human trafficking, transnational organized crime, and all forms of fraudulent activities that exploit citizens and foreign nationals alike.
The minister stressed that the government would not tolerate criminal enterprises operating within the country’s borders and assured the public that anyone found culpable after investigations would face the full force of the law. He further urged law enforcement agencies to strengthen surveillance, intelligence gathering, and community engagement strategies to prevent criminal groups from establishing operations in local communities.
Minister Lengor also called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely information on suspicious activities. He noted that community participation remains a critical component in the fight against organized crime and human trafficking.
The latest operation represents another significant step in Sierra Leone’s broader efforts to tackle transnational criminal activities and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation, while reinforcing public confidence in the country’s security institutions.