Authorities Intercept More Than 10 Chinese Nationals in Kono Over Alleged Illegal Mining Mission

A nationwide crackdown on illegal employment and immigration violations has recorded a major breakthrough after authorities intercepted more than 10 Chinese nationals allegedly heading to a mining site in Kono District without the required work and residence permits.

The Commissioner of Labour, accompanied by his enforcement team, intercepted the foreign nationals at the Mambudu Checkpoint in Kono District during an ongoing nationwide compliance operation to enforce Sierra Leone's Unified Work and Residence Permit regime.

According to preliminary reports, the Chinese nationals were travelling to Kumaroh Village, where they were allegedly planning to engage in gold and diamond mining activities without first regularising their immigration and employment status as required under Sierra Leonean law.

The group has since been handed over to the Sierra Leone Police Headquarters in Koidu for further investigation. Authorities say the outcome of the investigation will determine the appropriate legal action to be taken.

The interception is part of the Government's intensified efforts to ensure that all foreign nationals living and working in Sierra Leone comply with the country's labour and immigration laws. The enforcement campaign is also aimed at strengthening oversight of foreign participation in key sectors, particularly mining.

Speaking on the operation, the Commissioner of Labour said the era of foreign nationals entering, residing or working in Sierra Leone without the necessary legal permits is over. He stressed that strict enforcement of the Unified Work and Residence Permit regime is essential for protecting national security, promoting lawful employment and safeguarding the country's natural resources from illegal exploitation.

The latest operation signals the Government's determination to tighten compliance with labour and immigration regulations as authorities continue nationwide inspections targeting illegal employment and unauthorised business activities.

Investigations are ongoing, and authorities are expected to release further details as the case develops.

Source: Ministry of Employment Labour and Social Security