By Kandeh Sesay
Freetown—The Chief Immigration Officer (CIO), Hon. Alusine Kanneh, is facing mounting scrutiny over alleged ties to Jos Leijdekkers, a suspected drug baron. A viral video circulating online appears to show the CIO in the company of Leijdekkers, raising public concern over the nature of their association.
One of the key questions emerging from this controversy is how Leijdekkers entered Sierra Leone, allegedly bypassing standard immigration procedures. Further reports suggest that he may hold a Sierra Leonean passport under a different identity, intensifying calls for transparency from the immigration authorities.
This is not the first time the CIO has been linked to questionable passport issuances. It is recalled that he previously granted a Sierra Leonean passport to a Chinese national under disputed circumstances. Additionally, an incident from last year, in which thousands of dollars were reportedly stolen from the CIO’s residence, has fueled speculation about the source of his financial assets.
Compounding these allegations, sources claim that Leijdekkers has placed the CIO on his payroll, allegedly providing him with monthly payments. If proven, this could have serious implications for national security and the integrity of the immigration office.
In light of these concerns, The Watch Newspaper has reached out to CIO Hon. Alusine Kanneh for clarification. As of the time of publication, no official response has been provided. However, we remain open to publishing his statement should he choose to address these serious allegations.
See more details
