Office of National Security - SL

13/03/2026

A GLANCE AT A FACT-FINDING MISSION REPORT ON THE STANDOFF BETWEEN THE SIERRA LEONEAN & GUINEAN SECURITY PERSONNEL IN THE BORDER TOWN OF KALIYEREH, FALABA DISTRICT.

Before this standoff, residents of Kaliyereh and its surrounding border communities reported long-standing intimidation, harassment, extortion and suppression, including demands for taxes on farming activities across the border, frequent accusations of theft, and dissolution of inter-marriages; by the Guinean Armed Forces (GAF) personnel and Guinean citizens who are mainly youth.
This is among the findings of a report by a Fact-Finding Delegation constituted to visit Kaliyereh community in Solema Chiefdom, and probe into the circumstances surrounding the standoff between the security forces of the two neighboring Nations.
This follows an Executive Directive issued by the Honourable Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, dated 24 February 2026, when on Monday, 23 February 2026, the Guinean Armed Forces (GAF) reportedly apprehended and took over to Guinea, 16 Sierra Leonean security personnel. The abducted personnel included 14 from the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and 2 from the Sierra Leone Police (SLP).
The Eight-Member Delegation comprised: the Chief of Staff of the Office of National Security, the Chief of Army Staff of RSLAF, the Director, Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, the Director of the Africa Division of the Ministry of Finance and International Cooperation, the Operations Officer of the Criminal Investigation Division, Head Quarters, the Head of Geographic Information System, Statistics Sierra Leone and other senior officials from key national institutions co-opted at regional and district levels.
The Team was tasked to:
1. Establish the precise territorial status of the disputed location at Kaliyereh;
2. Verify the sequence of events leading to the incident and the arrest of security personnel;
3. Confirm the status, whereabouts, and welfare of the detained personnel and civilians;
4. Assess the security, diplomatic, and humanitarian implications; and
5. Provide actionable recommendations.
The team arrived in Kaliyereh on 26th February 2026 and first paid courtesy call on Lieutenant General (Rtd.) Brima Sesay who had earlier engaged the local authorities regarding the incident; who led the team to Paramount Chief Manga Sorie Konko Jawara II of neighboring Dembelia Musaia Chiefdom, and the affected Paramount Chief; Dr. Manga Salifu Salito Samura IV of Solema Chiefdom, Falaba District.

The Team did an in-depth analysis of the situation, and according to the report, the standoff between the Sierra Leonean Security Personnel and GAF came about when a joint RSLAF and SLP-OSD personnel were engaged in brick-making, for the construction of accommodation for security personnel deployed at the border within a territory believed to be in Sierra Leone.
Upon hearing that, the GAF personnel crossed into the area, halted the construction, removed the Sierra Leone national flag, and asserted Guinean territorial claim.
The report further stated that the GAF personnel first attempted to halt the work, but were met with resistance by the Sierra Leone Security Personnel in which they withdrew and later returned the same day with about 300 men heavily armed with machine guns, including anti-aircraft guns mounted on pickup vehicles and armored personnel carriers.

Due to strict orders not to open fire and active de-escalation efforts by Commanding Officer, Captain Francis Conteh and other personnel, the report says, the GAF personnel apprehended the 16 security personnel, inclining their arms and took them over to the Republic Guinea.

The incident prompted the highest level of governmental attention to safeguard national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the welfare of Sierra Leonean citizens and security personnel, leading to the formation of a multi-agency fact-finding team to investigate the incident.

During their investigation, the team engaged Community Stakeholders including the security personnel deployed at the border and also used Geo-Spatial Technology to determine the ownership of the disputed territory. The other findings of the delegation indicated that the land in question was allocated to the security personnel by the Kaliyereh Town Chief, Manga Samura for the construction of accommodation for Security personnel.
It is noted in the report that, the delegation could not have direct contact with Guinean authorities, however, the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Saidu Kuyateh of the 12 Infantry Battalion, informed the team that he had been in contact with the abducted Captain Francis Conteh through his WhatsApp contact who reported in one of the video calls that the other arrested personnel were seen lying on a bear floor in an open hall. Report later confirmed that all the security personnel had been released from custody and were safely back in Sierra Leone.
Another Significant finding in the report says the Economic activities are heavily dependent on Guinea; transactions are entirely done in Guinean currency; there is limited presence of Government of Sierra Leone’s authority in the general area; there is absence of basic social and economic amenities; dilapidated road networks and unemployment. The Luma (market) has been suspended, thereby exacerbating livelihood challenges.

On the Security and Diplomatic Ramifications, the report says the absence of clearly defined borders and limited state presence continue to create operational uncertainty and recurring tensions; and the denial of access and ongoing detention pose risks to national security, territorial integrity, and civil-military relations.

The Delegation commended the RSLAF and SLP as they demonstrated commendable restraint to avoid escalation, preserving peace in the national interest. The overall security situation in the accessible areas remains tense; as there was heavy deployment of GAF personnel in the contested area, thereby denying Sierra Leoneans access to the area.

The Delegation proffered the following recommendations:
a) That special recognition be accorded to the security personnel who were detained because of the professionalism they displayed during the standoff.
b) Permanently identify and demarcate the country’s entire border boundaries.
c) Strengthen presence of Government authorities in the disputed area.
d) Improve on the road network to facilitate internal trade.
e) Strengthen the existing security deployment and provide accommodation and logistical facilities for personnel.
f) Enhance security posture and operational capacity with modern equipment and sustained deployment of RSLAF and SLP personnel along the entire border.
g) Leverage platforms such as the Yalunka Organization and international partners (including IOM) to support mediation and community development.
h) Equip the RSLAF to serve as deterrent.
i) Strengthen and provide support to the existing technical committee on Borders.

In conclusion, the fact-finding mission provided critical insights into the 23 February 2026 incident as it strongly believes that if the recommendations submitted are acted upon, the issue of border dispute will be permanently resolved.

For further inquiries:
- ONS
www.ons.gov.sl
Toll-Free Line: 119.

12/03/2026

A HIGH POWERED DELEGATION FROM THE NIGERIAN NATIONAL DEFENCE COLLEGE MEETS WITH ONS.

The Office of National Security (ONS) hosted a high-powered Delegation from the Nigerian National Defence College (NDC) on 11th March 2026, as part of a week-long (8th to 14th March) study tour to Sierra Leone.

Led by the Director of Information and Communications Technology at the NDC, Air Commodore Edmund Olushola Oluokun, the Delegation comprised six faculty members, 21 Student Participants, Course 34 including three from Chad, Ghana, and
Liberia; and an administrative staff member of the college.
In his welcome address at the ONS Conference Room, the National Security Coordinator and Head of the ONS, Mr. Abdulai Caulker, expressed delight at the visit and extended a warm welcome to the Delegation, underscoring the deep and enduring bilateral ties between Nigeria and Sierra Leone.

In recognition of the strong bilateral ties and strong partnership between the two nations, the NSCoord requested all participants of the meeting to rise and observe a minute individual silent prayers, in remembrance of the Nigerian Falling Heroes who participated in Sierra Leone’s Decade-long civil war.

The Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr. Ahmed Sannoh joined the NSCoord in welcoming the delegation and gave a brief background on the mandate and roles of the ONS as a post-conflict Institution, in coordinating Security Sector to ensure national security.

In his response, Air Commodore Oluokun conveyed profound gratitude for the hospitality accorded his team and provided an insightful overview of the NDC; saying the NDC is the primary institution providing strategic-level training and research in National Security and Defence Studies. “It is the apex strategic Military Training Institution of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he stated.

Established in 1992 and located in Abuja, Air Commodore Oluokun said, the NDC core mandate is to prepare senior Military Officers, at the rank of Colonel, Captain, and their equivalents, along with selected civilian officials for leadership roles in national security management, defence policy formulation, and strategic decision-making at national and international levels. He further described the NDC as a strategic think-tank and professional military education hub for West Africa, where participants undergo rigorous training that integrates military strategy, geopolitics, international relations, defence economics, and security policy. “The college also hosts officers from allied nations, fostering regional cooperation and collective security frameworks across Africa and beyond”, he added.

The college, he, said, plays a pivotal role in strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture and contributing to regional peace and stability across Africa.

NS Coord, in turn, reflected on the historic and cordial relationship between Sierra Leone and Nigeria, which dates back to the Sierra Leone’s civil war era, when Nigerian forces stood firmly in support of the country. “Moments like these reinforce our strong bilateral relationship and the continued growth and progress of our two nations,” Mr. Caulker affirmed.

Giving an insight into the Extractive Industry in Sierra Leon and it corresponding threats to national security, the Director of Provincial and Border Security ONS, Mohamed Bankapoma Bangura, delivered a detailed presentation on “Security Dynamics and Emerging Threats in Resource Rich Areas”; in line with the 2026 NDC Study Tour theme:

“Extractive Industry and National Development in Sierra Leone: Lessons for Nigeria. The presentation aimed at exposing the NDC Delegation to Sierra Leone’s experiences in managing its extractive sector for sustainable national security and development.

The presentation attracted several questions from Student Participants of the NDC as well as Administrative Staff; prompting the response of senior ONS staff. Among the questions asked was the border conflicts between Sierra Leone and Guinea; and Liberia and Guinea; which the Chief of Staff of ONS, Francis Langumba Keili responded appropriately.

In his closing remarks, the NSCoord bade farewell to the Team as he emphasized the need for stronger ties between Sierra Leone and Nigeria to enhance regional peace and security and underscored Sierra Leone’s commitment to defence partnerships and strategic dialogue in the sug-region.

For further inquiries:
, ONS
www.ons.gov.sl
Toll-Free Line: 119.

12/03/2026

The Newly posted Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone pays Courtesy Call on the National Security Coordinator (NS Coord).

Freetown - 11th March 2026.

Receiving the Ambassador and his team, the NS Coord and Head of the Office of National Security (ONS), Mr. Abdulai Caulker expressed delight on the visit and welcomed the newly posted Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Zhao Yong to the ONS. Mr. Caulker commended the excellent bilateral relationship between Sierra Leone and China and promised to continue strengthening the close ties between the two countries.

The NS Coord briefly outlined the role of the ONS in national security coordination and encouraged the Embassy to take inventory of Chinese Nationals, who are mostly working in the provincial areas of the country. This, he said, is to ensure their safety and security of their investments as well as enhancing national security.
Responding, His Excellency Zhao Yong expressed his profound thanks and appreciation to the NS Coord for the warm reception accorded him and his team and pledged his and his Government's commitment to maintaining and improving the friendly ties between the two countries. The Ambassador furthered that “his office is opened to supporting the ONS” given the relevance of the job the Institution does.
Commenting on Chinese nationals who are engaged in various investment activities in different parts of the country, the Ambassador stated that he looked forward to a continued collaboration between his office and the ONS to ensure that their Citizens are in compliance with local as well as national laws.
The newly appointed Ambassador to Sierra Leone pledged his firm commitment to supporting the security sector and Sierra Leone as a whole.
The Deputy National Security Coordinator and Chief of Staff of ONS, who were also in attendance made meaningful contributions to the discussion.

For further inquiries:
, ONS
www.ons.gov.sl
Toll-Free Line: 119.

20/02/2026

Episode 28

Linking the discussion to the last episode, there are Rules of Engagement (RoE) in implementing the MACP. The agreed RoE for any MACP operation are known as the ‘Green Card’. The RoE form the basis for MACP operations and may only be adjusted with Ministerial approval should the situation require it. The baseline RoE are as follows, noting that they do not affect the personnel’s general right to self defence:

• A personnel should not use more force than is necessary.
• Fi****ms must only be used as a last resort.
• All possible precautions must be taken not to injure anyone other than the target.
• Fi****ms must always be ‘made safe’; i.e. no live round is to be carried in the breech, unless personnel are ordered to make them ready or are about to fire.
• A warning shot should be given before opening fire, if practicable and should be as loud as possible with an order to stop attacking, warning that, shots will be fired if the orders are not obeyed.
• Personnel may fire without warning in circumstances where giving a warning, or any delay in firing could lead to the death or serious injury to the individual or group the personnel are protecting, the personnel themselves, or to another member of the public or security forces.
• A personnel may open fire against an armed criminal and persons if:
• They are using or about to use a firearm or any other weapon, or exploding an explosive device;
• There is danger that the personnel or any member of the security forces, or a person whom the personnel is protecting may be killed or seriously injured.
• He (or another armed criminal or person with whom he is operating) is holding a hostage captive under threat to kill the hostage, and
• There is an immediate danger that the armed criminal(s) or person(s) will carry out or participate in carrying out the threat and there is no other way of ending the danger to the hostage.
• The personnel is in the course of placing an explosive charge in or near any vehicle, aircraft, ship, building or installation which, if exploded, would endanger the life or cause serious injury to the personnel or another member of the security forces, or any person whom it is the personnel’s duty to protect, and there is no other way to protect those in danger.

Kindly share and follow us to know about the Military Aid to the Civil Community (MACC) in our next Episode.

For further inquiries:

www.ons.gov.sl
Toll-Free Line: 119

Message from the National Security Coordinator Since the end of the civil war in 2002, the security landscape in Sierra Leone has evolved dramatically with considerable progress in structural reforms and service delivery. There has been a paradigm shift from state-centric to human security. This cur...

12/02/2026

Know About the ONS
Episode 27

In this episode, we bring you the Military Aid to the Civil Power (MACP), another type of Military Aid to Civil Authority (MACA) Policy. There are two types of MACP tasks:
* Emergency and
* Standing MACP tasks.
Emergency MACP task is to respond to Emergency situations beyond the capabilities of the Police (the civil authority) and is short lived.
Standing MACP tasks are permanent. For instance, joint Police and Military deployments at critical national infrastructure (State House/Lodge, Bumbuna Hydro Electricity Plant, Border Patrols etc).

Operationally, MACP is the provision of military assistance (armed if appropriate) to the Civil Power in its maintenance of law, order and public safety, using specialist capabilities or equipment, in situations beyond the capability of the Civil Power. A civil power is a civil authority that has constitutional and statutory responsibility for the maintenance of law and order. Situations beyond the capability of the Civil Power will include support in the Counter Terrorism role.

MACP is initiated by the Civil Power, informing the National Security Coordinator (NSCoord) of a situation requiring the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) assistance and articulating the effect they wish to achieve. In general, MACP assistance may take the form of advice, or the conduct of specific activities, but will always be subject to availability of forces, unless it is a niche capability.

Given that MACP tasks are undertaken in support of police operations and investigations, public presentation of these operations and investigations will be subject to legal and operational security restrictions. As a result, most MACP support receives no publicity. Exceptions are made only with the agreement of the Police or the National Security Council Coordinating Group (NSCCG).

The NSCCG has responsibility for MoD MACP policy and the conduct of MACP operations. The command of a MACP operation will be via the Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) which will manage the deployment of troops at the operational level. Direction and level of response will be articulated to the JCC by the NSCCG) through the ONS NSCoord, with authority to deploy troops being granted authorisation by the National Security Council. Command of troops will remain with the military.

The overall responsibility for the resolution of criminal and terrorist incidents lies with the Police, and the direction of operations at the scene will rest with the Police Commander. Service personnel deployed under MACP arrangements will take direction from the senior police officer dealing with the operation, irrespective of rank, to enable the delivery of authorised directives. However, command and tactical control of Service personnel will remain with a military commander.

Kindly share and follow us to know more about MACP in our next Episode.

For further inquiries:

www.ons.gov.sl
Toll-Free Line: 119

Message from the National Security Coordinator Since the end of the civil war in 2002, the security landscape in Sierra Leone has evolved dramatically with considerable progress in structural reforms and service delivery. There has been a paradigm shift from state-centric to human security. This cur...

21/01/2026

ONS and NEWRMC-SL sign MoU.

Wednesday - 21st January, 2026.

In a historic event, the Office of National Security (ONS) and the National Early Warning Response Mechanism Center (NEWRMC-SL) sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration and cooperation between the two institutions.

In his welcome statement, the National Security Coordinator, ONS, Mr. Abdulai Caulker, registered his profound delight for presiding over the historic ceremony cementing the good working relationship between the ONS and the NEWRMC-SL. The NSCoord stated that the ceremony itself was a formalization of the existing partnership between the two agencies. Highlighting some of the benefits of signing the MoU, the NSCoord stated that the MoU will further strengthen joint information and intelligence sharing efforts as well as providing the framework for the reinforcement of good governance and deepening public trust confidence in the Security Sector.

The NSCoord concluded by pledging the ONS' commitment to inter-agency collaboration, coordination and cooperation at all times.

In response, the Executive Director, NEWRMC-SL, Mrs. Francess Nyuma also expressed extreme thanks and appreciation for the level of coordination and support rendered by the ONS to the NEWRMC-SL since its establishment five years ago. Mrs. Nyuma also stated that the existence of an MoU between the two important institutions will not only formalize their interaction, but it will serve as a catalyst for the enhancement of national, regional and global peace and security. The Executive Director concluded by pledging the NEWRMC-SL's commitment to fully implementing the contents of the MoU and honouring the leadership of the NSCoord and his Management Team for the robust stewardship in improving inter-agency coordination and collaboration in Sierra Leone.

The Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr. Ahmed A. Sannoh did the citation of the MoU.

The climax of the ceremony was the signing of the MoU by the NSCoord and the Executive Director followed by an exchange of the signed MoU between the heads of the two agencies. The DNSCoord and Senior Analyst at NEWRMC-SL witnessed the signing of the MoU.

The event was moderated by Mr. Patrick Johnny, the Director of Human Resource Management at ONS.

End.

www.ons.gov.sl
Toll-Free Line: 119

19/01/2026

As a security practitioner with years of experience in conflict prevention and human rights protection, I insist that we never forget the names of the victims, the villages that were razed, the towns that were terrorised, and the specific acts of brutality that scarred our nation. Our professional commitment to security and human rights is meaningful only when it is rooted in an unflinching confrontation with the past.

On this day of remembrance, let us renew our pledge to transform the deep trauma we inherited into the resolute strength that will guide our future vigilance.

In the field of security, we know that lasting peace is built on memory, not amnesia.

Today, as practitioners dedicated to the defence of human dignity, we commit anew to converting the pain of those dark years into the disciplined, proactive strength that prevents history from repeating itself.

14/01/2026

Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition Signs MOU with Government of Sierra Leone & Launches Strategic Initiative.

Freetown, Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Sierra Leone has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) aimed at boosting the country's counter-terrorism efforts. The historic signing of the MOU and the launch of the IMCTC strategic initiative at the Freetown International Conference Centre (Bintumani) on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, aims to strengthen strategic partnerships. The partnership will focus on training defense forces personnel, who will in turn train religious leaders such as Imams and Pastors on counter-terrorism and extremist ideologies. Additionally, it seeks to develop expertise in anti-money laundering to combat terrorist financing and enhance national security, addressing threats from the volatile Sahel region.

With support from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the initiative seeks to enhance governance, build capacity, and protect Sierra Leone and West Africa from terrorist expansion. The MOU was signed by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura on behalf of the Security Sector of Sierra Leone, and Major General Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi, Secretary-General of the IMCTC.

In his welcome address, National Security Coordinator of the Office of National Security (ONS) in Sierra Leone, Mr. Abdulai Caulker, commended the IMCTC delegates for the initiative to launch the Counter-Terrorism Coalition Strategy in Sierra Leone, highlighting the country's commitment to collective security and global partnership. He emphasized that this milestone event marks a significant step in Sierra Leone's counter-terrorism journey, enhancing intelligence-driven cooperation with IMCTC. Mr. Caulker praised His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio's leadership in consolidating Sierra Leone's alliance with IMCTC member states, strengthening regional security. He stressed the need for sustained joint action against evolving terrorist threats, leveraging strategic foresight, inter-agency coordination, and capacity building.

The Minister of Internal Affairs, Mr. Morie Lengor, in his keynote address, emphasized that terrorism and extremism remain threats in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly the Sahel region, and require multilateral cooperation to prevent their spread. He commended the IMCTC for the initiative to train the security sector in Sierra Leone on counter-terrorism, which he said would add professional value to participants.

Major General Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi, Secretary-General of the IMCTC, commended the Government of Sierra Leone for the hospitality accorded to him and his delegation. He emphasized the importance of integrated partnerships to tackle terrorism in the Sahel region, citing support from Saudi Arabia. "Terrorism is a global phenomenon that requires cross-border cooperation to protect communities," Al-Moghedi stated. He emphasized that countering terrorism demands an integrated partnership, rather than fragmented efforts.

Sierra Leone's Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed Barrie, provided a brief historical perspective on the formation of the IMCTC, founded in December 2015 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. He explained that the coalition aims to counter the misconception of Islam as a terrorist religion, promote unity among Islamic countries, and combat extremism globally. Ambassador Barrie requested the IMCTC for the following:

● capacity building to enhance Sierra Leone security sector readiness.

● the establishment of a counter-terrorism centre in Freetown

● Research collaboration, information sharing,

● Public diplomacy initiatives to counter extremist narratives.

The Deputy Minister of Defence (DMD) of Sierra Leone, Colonel (Rtd.) Muana Brima Massaquoi, on behalf of the Minister of Defence and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Sierra Leone, H.E Brigadier (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio, expressed deep appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, for the strategic initiative in establishing the IMCTC. He said the Ministry of Defence remains committed to recognizing terrorism as a transnational threat that demands collective action, shared responsibility, and sustained partnership. On his personal behalf, and on behalf of the President and people of Sierra Leone, the DMD expressed appreciation for the launch and particularly, the three-week training component for the selected members of security forces.

The three-week training for Sierra Leone's security sector will equip participants with skills to neutralize unexploded ordnance and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), including identification, towing, and safe disposal. The final week focuses on counter-terrorism operations, training participants to search, locate, and respond to explosive threats in realistic scenarios involving persons, vehicles, buildings, and areas.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Sierra Leone, Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura, delivered the vote of thanks.

For enquiries:
Email: [email protected]
or
www.ons.gov.sl
Toll-Free Line: *119

09/01/2026

LAUNCH OF THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA ISLAMIC MILITARY COALITION STRATEGIC INITIATIVE IN SIERRA LEONE.

The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (lMCTC) Strategic Initiative will be launched in Sierra Leone on 13th January 2026 at the Freetown International Conference Centre (Bintumani).

The IMCTC represents a landmark initiative in collective security among nations. Announced on 15th December 2015 by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (the world’s leading Islamic nation) under the leadership of then-Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdul-Aziz, the coalition emerged amid rising global terrorism threats, particularly from groups exploiting religious narratives.

Headquartered in Riyadh, the IMCTC was conceived as a voluntary alliance to coordinate efforts against terrorism, emphasizing unity and shared responsibility while respecting national sovereignty.

The coalition's brief history reflects Saudi Arabia's proactive role in addressing extremism. Initially launched with 34 member states, it expanded over the years through diplomatic engagements and ministerial meetings.

The inaugural meeting of Defense Ministers in November 2017 formalized the operational framework, focusing on multidimensional counter-terrorism strategies. By 2025, the IMCTC had grown into a robust platform, conducting training programs, ideological campaigns, and intelligence-sharing initiatives, demonstrating resilience in adapting to evolving threats like terrorist financing and online radicalization.

Today, the IMCTC comprises 43 member countries, spanning Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Notable member countries include Bahrain, Bangladesh, Jordan, Pakistan, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, alongside African nations such as Sierra Leone, Mali, Benin, Chad, Nigeria, Comoros, Guinea, Niger, Egypt, Senegal, Somalia, Sudan, amongst others. This diverse membership underscores the coalition's pan-Islamic character, uniting countries irrespective of sectarian differences to confront terrorism collectively.
The primary objectives of the IMCTC are to protect member states from all terrorist groups and organizations, regardless of their ideology or affiliation. It seeks to combat terrorism across four key domains: ideological (refuting extremist narratives and promoting moderate Islamic principles), media (countering terrorist propaganda), counter-terrorism financing (disrupting funding networks), and military (enhancing operational coordination and capacity).

These goals emphasize prevention, coordination, and sustainable partnerships to foster long-term stability. The coalition's components revolve around these four domains, supported by specialized centers in Riyadh.

In Africa, the IMCTC targets regions vulnerable to violent extremism, particularly the Sahel and West Africa, where groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and ISIS pose significant risks. Saudi Arabia's backing has enabled targeted programs, including capacity-building workshops, financial investigation training, and regional initiatives in countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, aiming to strengthen local institutions and disrupt terrorist networks through intelligence and tactical support.

These efforts in Africa highlight the IMCTC's strategic focus on high-risk areas, providing member states with tools for proactive defense. Programs such as the multi-phase Sahel initiatives and specialized training in counter-terrorism financing demonstrate a commitment to localized solutions, enhancing military and civilian capabilities while aligning with broader international counter-terrorism frameworks.

The IMCTC Strategic Initiative represents a significant step forward in Sierra Leone's proactive approach to counter-terrorism and regional security cooperation. Backed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and aligned with the coalition's broader mission to unite member states against terrorism and violent extremism, the launching program will enhance capacity-building, intelligence sharing, and tactical capabilities, contributing to greater stability in Sierra Leone amid evolving security challenges.

For further inquiries:

www.ons.gov.sl
Toll-Free Line: 119

Message from the National Security Coordinator Since the end of the civil war in 2002, the security landscape in Sierra Leone has evolved dramatically with considerable progress in structural reforms and service delivery. There has been a paradigm shift from state-centric to human security. This cur...