By Festus Thullah
Police in eastern Sierra Leone have arrested a man in Kenema on suspicion of attempting to sell his younger brother for money, according to local media reports.
Authorities have not yet released full details of the case, but the incident has drawn public attention following the circulation of a video on social media.
Cases involving the sale or trafficking of family members are rare but fall under broader concerns about human trafficking and child exploitation in Sierra Leone and the wider West African region.
The country has in recent years strengthened its legal framework to combat trafficking in persons, with law enforcement agencies working alongside international partners to curb the practice. However, economic hardship, unemployment and poverty continue to leave some vulnerable individuals at risk.
Child protection advocates say that trafficking cases can sometimes involve relatives or acquaintances exploiting children for financial gain, particularly in economically strained communities.
Authorities have urged the public to report suspected cases of trafficking and child abuse, noting that such offences carry severe legal penalties.
Police in Kenema are expected to continue investigations into the incident.
The arrest comes amid ongoing efforts by the government and civil society groups to raise awareness and strengthen enforcement against human trafficking and related crimes.
