The Civil Society Consortium on Internal Security has called on the government to reverse its decision to suspend the operations of Securiport Sierra Leone Limited.
Hawa Koroma-Executive Director, Civil Society Consortium on Internal Security
The appeal follows a public notice issued last week by the Ministry of Internal Affairs announcing a temporary suspension of the airport security tax and Securiport’s operations at Freetown International Airport, effective Monday, July 6, 2026, until further notice.
Speaking to this medium on Friday, July 3, 2026, the Executive Director of the Consortium, Madam Hawa Koroma, said Securiport has been doing commendable work in ensuring the security and safety of travelers entering and exiting the country.
“Securiport is a global leader in civil aviation security and border management,” Madam Koroma stated. “They have partnered with government by deploying intelligent immigration control systems, real-time threat detection, and big data analytics designed to prevent human trafficking, identity theft, and illegal travel.”
She explained that Securiport operates an advanced fingerprint and facial recognition system to verify travelers’ identities and detect forged passports. The system also connects local immigration checkpoints to international security databases for instant background checks.
“Securiport plays a pivotal role in safeguarding our nation through state-of-the-art biometric technology at Freetown International Airport,” she emphasized.
Madam Koroma further noted that Securiport’s contribution extends beyond security. She said the company provides digital health data screening and tracking technologies that help government mitigate the spread of transmissible diseases.
She said Securiport also provide standard digital system in the immigration Department for the application of the online Sierra Leone Visa (E-visa. SL)
They also provide support in the health sector. During the outbreak of Mpox they supported civil society to raise public awareness on preventive measures.
“Securiport was instrumental in supporting the fight against Mpox and has, from time to time, supported education initiatives,” she added. “A nation cannot develop if its security apparatus is fragile.”
Since the government’s announcement, the Consortium says it has received massive public support for Securiport. According to Madam Koroma, the majority of citizens interviewed have called on government to lift the suspension.
The Civil Society Consortium on Internal Security is urging government to reconsider the decision in the interest of national security, public health, and smooth operations at the country’s main point of entry.
Background
Securiport Sierra Leone Limited has managed advanced border control and security screening at Freetown International Airport under a partnership with government. The suspension of its operations takes effect on Monday, July 6, 2026.
