In a major move to tighten vehicle registration controls and combat international car theft, the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) has recovered and impounded six luxury vehicles stolen from Canada and shipped into the country.
The operation was carried out in partnership with INTERPOL and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The vehicles—one 2025 Land Rover Defender Jeep and five Lexus RX 350 SUVs—were intercepted at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Cline Town, Freetown.
SLRSA Executive Director James Baggie Bio led a team of senior officials to inspect the seized vehicles and announced that they have been permanently blocked from the authority’s registration database. This action ensures the vehicles cannot be registered or legally operated in Sierra Leone.
“This is a strong message to criminals and a safeguard for legitimate car owners,” Mr. Bio said. “We are tightening the system to ensure Sierra Leone does not become a dumping ground for stolen vehicles.”
In a broader policy shift, Mr. Bio revealed that, effective 1 September 2025, the SLRSA will require all SUVs manufactured from 2017 onward to present valid ownership verification from INTERPOL before they can be registered in the country.
The new policy is aimed at curbing the rising number of stolen vehicles entering West African ports and reinforces Sierra Leone’s commitment to cross-border cooperation on vehicle crime.
SLRSA is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious vehicles or activities related to car theft. The Authority also reiterated its commitment to enhancing road safety, protecting consumers, and upholding the integrity of vehicle registration in Sierra Leone.
By Allan Douglas
