17 Suspects Arrested for Illegal Mining, Encroachment in Outamba Kilimi National Park

Seventeen people, including five women and a minor, have been arrested for allegedly engaging in illegal mining, unauthorised entry and other unlawful activities in the Outamba-Kilimi National Park.

The arrests were made on Thursday, August 27, during a joint operation by the National Protected Area Authority and the Conservation Trust Fund.

The operation was supported by the Sierra Leone Police and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces as authorities stepped up efforts to protect the national park.

The suspects were taken into custody for questioning, while the five women are assisting police with investigations at the Regional Police Headquarters in Makeni.

The NPAA says the suspects could be charged to court after the investigations are completed. Officials say the operation is part of efforts to stop illegal mining, encroachment and other activities that threaten protected areas.