By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Turkish Airlines on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, deployed a larger aircraft to Freetown International Airport (FIA) as part of efforts to resolve the issue of passengers’ luggage left behind on its previous flight to Sierra Leone.

The airline operated a Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the route, significantly increasing cargo capacity. As a result, the majority of delayed baggage was successfully transported to FIA, with only a few passengers’ items remaining outstanding.

Confirming the development, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, said the action fulfilled earlier commitments made by the airline and aviation authorities.

“True to our word and the arrangements announced earlier this month in our press release, Turkish Airlines deployed the B787 Dreamliner to address the left baggage issue,” Barrie stated.

She assured affected passengers that systems are in place to ensure the remaining luggage is delivered promptly and advised them to contact Sea Coach or Turkish Airlines directly for updates and further assistance.

The intervention follows weeks of coordination between the SLCAA and the airline to address passenger concerns and improve service delivery, particularly during the busy end-of-year travel period.

Barrie also used the opportunity to extend seasonal goodwill to travelers and the general public, wishing everyone happy holidays as air traffic continues to increase during the festive season.

The SLCAA has reiterated its commitment to protecting passenger rights and working closely with international airlines to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable air transport services to and from Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/as-turkish-airlines-deploys-larger-aircraft-to-resolve-baggage-backlog-slcaa-confirms-successful-arrival-of-delayed-luggage-following-dreamliner-operation/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has secured the conviction of two customs officers of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Akmed Karim and Mary Banya, on two counts of corruption offences, following a High Court judgment delivered in Freetown.

The conviction was handed down on Thursday, December 18, 2025, by the High Court of Sierra Leone sitting in Freetown, presided over by the Honourable Justice Aiah Simeon Alieu, JA. The court found Akmed Karim, of No. 49 Matindi House, Brookfields, Freetown, and Mary Banya, of No. 26 Parsonage Street, Kissy, Freetown, guilty on two counts each of corruption-related offences.

Both convicts were customs officers attached to the National Revenue Authority and were, at the time of the offence, stationed at Queen Elizabeth Quay II in Freetown. They were charged and convicted on two counts of Soliciting an Advantage and Accepting an Advantage, contrary to Section 28(2) of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 12 of 2008.

According to the evidence presented by the prosecution, the offences were committed on February 28, 2019. The court heard that Akmed Karim and Mary Banya jointly solicited and received the sum of Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Old Leones (Le 2,500,000) from a staff member of Bolloré Logistics. The illicit payment was demanded in order to facilitate and fast-track the clearing process of a 40-foot container owned by Juan Ruiz, an American businessman.

The Anti-Corruption Commission, through its prosecution team, adduced what the court described as sufficient and credible evidence to establish the elements of the offences beyond reasonable doubt. The prosecution demonstrated that the accused persons abused their positions as public officers by demanding and receiving an unlawful advantage in the course of performing their official duties.

In delivering sentence, the Honourable Justice Aiah Simeon Alieu imposed a custodial sentence of three years’ imprisonment on each of the convicts. Alternatively, the court ordered that each convict may pay a fine of Sixty Thousand New Leones (NLe 60,000) on the two counts.

The conviction is being hailed by the Anti-Corruption Commission as another significant milestone in its sustained efforts to combat bribery, abuse of office, and other corrupt practices within public institutions, particularly at revenue-generating points of entry such as the ports.

In a statement following the judgment, the Commission reassured the general public of its unwavering commitment to fighting corruption at all levels, emphasizing that no public officer is above the law. The ACC reiterated that it will continue to investigate, prosecute, and secure convictions against individuals who abuse their offices for personal gain, regardless of their status or position.

The Commission further encouraged members of the public and the business community to report all acts of bribery and corruption, assuring them of confidentiality and protection under the law. According to the ACC, public cooperation remains critical in strengthening integrity, accountability, and transparency in public service.

The case forms part of the ACC’s broader anti-corruption drive aimed at promoting good governance, safeguarding public resources, and restoring public confidence in state institutions. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/high-court-jails-two-nra-customs-officers-over-bribery-at-queen-elizabeth-quay/

By Ibrahim Sesay

Four defendants accused of possession and use of illegal drugs have been committed to stand trial at the High Court of Sierra Leone following a ruling by Magistrate Hadiru Daboh at the Kenema Magistrate Court.

The committal, which took place on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, is in line with the enforcement of the National Drugs Control Act No. 10 of 2008 and recent Practice Directions issued by the Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, Hon. Justice Kumba Kamanda, aimed at ensuring the speedy trial of drug and drug-related offences across the country.

According to the prosecution, the four accused persons were arraigned for offences contrary to Section 8(a) of the National Drugs Control Act, which criminalises the possession and use of controlled substances. The suspects were arrested on different dates in Kenema City and surrounding communities with substances suspected to be kush and cannabis sativa.

One of the defendants, Musa Sannoh, a resident of 3 Kpasamoi Street in Kenema City, was allegedly found in possession of 26 wraps of kush on December 2, 2025. Another accused, Cherinoh Sannoh, a Sierra Leonean civil servant from Pandebu Town in Kenema District, was arrested on November 30, 2025, with quantities of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis sativa.

The third defendant, Moinina Musa, who resides at 10 Pujeboi Street in Kenema City, was apprehended on November 3, 2025, in possession of dried leaves believed to be kush. Meanwhile, Tamba Nyuma, a resident of 13 Kpasamoi Street in Kenema City, was arrested on December 1, 2025, with 26 wraps of kush, according to police testimony.

During the proceedings, no pleas were taken from the accused persons. Magistrate Daboh declined to grant bail, citing the seriousness of the offences and the need to comply with the Chief Justice’s directive on expediting drug-related cases. The four defendants were subsequently remanded at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre in Kenema pending their appearance before the High Court.

In delivering his ruling, Magistrate Hadiru Daboh stated that he had carefully examined the evidence presented by the prosecution and was satisfied that a prima facie case had been established against all four defendants. He noted that the prosecution had fully discharged its responsibility at the committal stage, leaving the court with no alternative but to commit the matters to the High Court for trial.

The cases were prosecuted by Police Sergeant David Idriss of the Legal and Justice Support Department, attached to the Kenema Police Division.

The committal forms part of broader national efforts by law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to address the growing challenge of drug abuse and trafficking, particularly the increasing prevalence of kush and other narcotic substances. Authorities have repeatedly warned that drug-related crimes pose serious risks to public health, security, and social stability, especially among young people.

Legal observers say the swift handling of the cases demonstrates the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the law and supporting government efforts to combat drug abuse through decisive legal action. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/magistrate-hadiru-daboh-commits-four-drug-suspects-to-high-court-in-kenema/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government and people of Sierra Leone have expressed deep gratitude to a Russian Humanitarian Medical Team following the successful conclusion of a nationwide humanitarian medical outreach that delivered free, specialized healthcare services to thousands of citizens across the country from December 6 to December 26, 2025.

The three-week medical mission, hosted under the auspices of the Government of Sierra Leone, forms part of ongoing international health cooperation initiatives aimed at strengthening access to quality healthcare, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, children, and underserved communities. The outreach was implemented in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health of Sierra Leone, with support from diplomatic and humanitarian partners.

According to official information released by the Ministry of Health, the visiting Russian medical team provided a wide range of free medical and surgical services delivered by highly trained specialists with extensive international experience. The services covered critical areas including obstetrics and midwifery, perinatal care, maternal and child health, neonatal intensive care, ultrasound diagnostics, emergency medicine, critical care, and anesthesiology.

The outreach also extended to general and pediatric dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, implantology, oncology, general surgery, and reconstructive surgery—offering life-changing interventions to patients who would otherwise face serious barriers in accessing such advanced medical care.

The mission was led by a multidisciplinary team of doctors, surgeons, midwives, anesthesiologists, pediatricians, dentists, and neonatal specialists. Beyond clinical care, the team engaged in extensive capacity-building activities, including hands-on training, professional workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions with Sierra Leonean healthcare workers. These efforts are expected to strengthen local capacity and contribute to the long-term development of the country’s healthcare system.

To ensure broad national impact, the humanitarian medical outreach was strategically implemented across several locations. The team began operations in Freetown from December 6 to 8, before moving to Bonthe from December 9 to 14. Services were then extended to Bo on December 15, followed by Kenema from December 16 to 20. The mission concluded with a final phase in Freetown from December 21 to 24, 2025.

This structured rollout ensured that citizens across the Western Area, Southern Province, and Eastern Province benefited directly from the initiative, significantly easing pressure on local health facilities and improving access to specialized care for thousands of patients.

Health authorities have described the mission as a strong example of health diplomacy and people-centered international cooperation. Officials noted that the initiative aligns with national priorities to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, expand access to specialized medical services, and improve skills transfer to local health professionals.

Senior members of the Russian team delivered lectures and practical demonstrations on managing obstetric emergencies, neonatal resuscitation, modern anesthesia techniques, oncology care, reconstructive surgery, and contemporary dental practices. These sessions, conducted alongside local hospital staff, are expected to leave lasting institutional benefits beyond the duration of the mission.

The Russian Humanitarian Medical Mission arrived in Sierra Leone in early December 2025 to commence the nationwide outreach. The delegation was warmly received upon arrival at Freetown International Airport, underscoring the significance of the initiative to both countries.

The mission was facilitated by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Russian Federation, Mohamed Yongawo, with the support of the Ministry of Health. It forms part of the Russian Federation’s broader programme of medical and volunteer cooperation with African nations.

Speaking on behalf of the mission, the Head of Mission, Ekaterina Glok, explained that the team comprised a diverse group of specialists deployed to provide free medical services across major hospitals in Freetown, Bonthe, Bo, and Kenema.

“This initiative represents not only medical assistance, but also a deepening of cooperation and friendship between our two countries,” Glok said, emphasizing that the mission reflects shared values of solidarity, compassion, and mutual respect.

Throughout the outreach period, members of the public seeking further information or referrals were encouraged to liaise directly with the Ministry of Health through designated contact persons and medical coordinators attached to the mission. Health officials consistently emphasized that all services provided under the outreach were entirely free of charge and delivered in partnership with local hospitals and health facilities.

As the mission concluded, health stakeholders, hospital administrators, and community leaders across the country commended the initiative for its professionalism, impact, and solidarity with the people of Sierra Leone. Many beneficiaries described the services as timely and transformative, particularly in specialized areas such as neonatal intensive care, oncology, and reconstructive surgery.

The Government of Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international partnerships that directly improve the health and well-being of its citizens, while continuing to invest in sustainable healthcare development through training, infrastructure, and service delivery.

The Russian Humanitarian Medical Mission to Sierra Leone stands as a powerful demonstration of global solidarity and effective international cooperation—leaving behind not only treated patients, but also enhanced local capacity and renewed hope for equitable access to quality healthcare nationwide. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/russian-humanitarian-medical-mission-concludes-three-week-nationwide-free-medical-services-in-sierra-leone/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has appealed for calm, understanding, and renewed commitment to religious tolerance following the circulation of a controversial video on social media in which a religious cleric is heard making comments widely interpreted as discouraging Muslims from accepting Christmas greetings or food from Christians.

The video has sparked intense public debate and concern across Sierra Leone, a country long celebrated—both locally and internationally—for its peaceful interfaith coexistence between Muslims and Christians.

Addressing worshippers and community members on Saturday at the Tabligh Mosque in Macdonald, Vice President Jalloh broke his silence on the issue, urging religious leaders to exercise restraint and responsibility in their sermons and public statements. He reminded clerics of their influential role in shaping public attitudes and social behaviour, stressing that their messages should unite rather than divide communities.

According to the Vice President, religious teachings, whether drawn from the Holy Quran or the Bible, must be conveyed with wisdom and contextual understanding. He noted that faith does not exist in isolation but within societies whose values are shaped by history, culture, and shared experiences. Sierra Leone, he said, has earned global recognition as one of the most religiously tolerant and peaceful nations precisely because its people have consistently placed unity above division.

Dr. Jalloh emphasised that Muslims and Christians in Sierra Leone are not merely neighbours but brothers and sisters who share daily life, social responsibilities, and even family ties. He highlighted the long-standing tradition of Sierra Leoneans attending one another’s weddings, funerals, naming ceremonies, and religious celebrations, regardless of faith.

He noted that these shared moments—mourning together in times of loss, celebrating together in moments of joy, and offering mutual support—form the foundation of the nation’s social cohesion and national identity.

The Vice President also cautioned against absolutism in religious interpretation, reminding religious leaders that no individual holds a monopoly over divine knowledge or understanding. He encouraged humility, consultation, continuous learning, and moderation, particularly when addressing sensitive doctrinal matters that could have far-reaching social consequences.

Leadership, he stressed, especially religious leadership, demands patience, wisdom, and respect for differing views. He warned that inflammatory or uncompromising rhetoric could erode trust and threaten the harmony that Sierra Leoneans have carefully nurtured over generations.

Drawing from personal experience, Dr. Jalloh said that his identity as a Muslim has never prevented him from attending ceremonies held in churches, just as Christians regularly attend events in mosques. He described these interactions as practical demonstrations of interfaith respect and coexistence, rather than mere symbolic gestures.

His address comes amid heightened public discourse following the viral video, which many Sierra Leoneans have described as inconsistent with the country’s long-held values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

Concluding his remarks, the Vice President called on all religious leaders to continue promoting messages of love, moderation, and unity. He reaffirmed that safeguarding Sierra Leone’s tradition of religious harmony is a shared responsibility that rests not only on leaders but on all citizens, stressing that the nation’s greatest strength lies in its unity as one people, regardless of religious affiliation. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vice-president-urges-clerics-to-promote-peace-warns-against-divisive-rhetoric/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Choithram Memorial Hospital (CMH), in collaboration with INTERPLAST Germany, has announced a major humanitarian medical outreach that will provide free consultation, treatment and surgeries for patients in need of specialized plastic and reconstructive care in Sierra Leone.

The initiative, which will be hosted at Choithram Memorial Hospital, brings together experienced plastic surgeons from Germany under the auspices of INTERPLAST, a renowned international organization known for delivering reconstructive surgical services in low-resource settings across the world.

According to the hospital, the medical camp is designed to address a wide range of correctable conditions that often go untreated due to cost and limited access to specialized care. The services will be offered completely free of charge, including surgeries, making the program a lifeline for many vulnerable patients.

The free medical outreach targets patients suffering from:

- Post-burn contractures


- Disorders or deformities of the hand, feet or wrist


- Tumors of the hand and feet


- Cleft lip and cleft palate

Medical experts note that those conditions, when untreated, can lead to long-term disability, social stigma and reduced quality of life; especially for children and young adults.

The camp will be coordinated by Dr. Eric Wongo, a plastic surgeon and experienced humanitarian medical professional, who will work alongside a team of visiting German specialists and local healthcare personnel.

Speaking on the initiative, hospital officials emphasized that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to restoring dignity, function and hope to patients who would otherwise have no access to such advanced surgical care.

Registration for eligible patients officially opens on 2nd January 2026 and closes on 5th February 2026. Interested individuals or caregivers are encouraged to register early, as patient selection will be based on medical assessment and available surgical capacity.

For registration and further inquiries, members of the public can contact 076541331 or visit www.cmhfreetown.com.

The initiative was initiated by Dr. M’Baimba Lamin Baryoh, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, whose facilitation has been widely praised as an example of how diplomacy can translate into direct social and health benefits for citizens.

The free plastic surgery camp underscores Choithram Memorial Hospital’s growing role as a hub for specialized medical services and international health partnerships in Sierra Leone. It also highlights the importance of global solidarity in addressing healthcare gaps, particularly for patients living with preventable or correctable physical conditions.

Health advocates have welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely, impactful and transformative; especially for children born with cleft conditions and adults living with post-burn disabilities.

As registration begins, thousands of Sierra Leoneans are expected to benefit from what is being described as one of the most significant free reconstructive surgery interventions in recent years. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/choithram-memorial-hospital-interplast-germany-launch-free-plastic-surgery-and-consultation-camp/

Freetown’s culinary landscape has taken a remarkable leap forward with the continued rise of Lǒr Restaurant, a fine-dining destination that seamlessly blends Sierra Leonean authenticity with international sophistication. As the new year unfolds, the management and staff of Lǒr Restaurant extend warm Happy New Year wishes to all customers, partners, and food lovers at home and abroad.

Nestled along the scenic Peninsular Highway in Juba, Lǒr Restaurant has fast become one of the most sought-after dining venues in the capital, drawing both locals and visitors with its refined ambiance, diverse menu, and world-class service. The restaurant represents a bold statement in modern hospitality—one that reflects Freetown’s growing cosmopolitan identity while remaining proudly rooted in local culture.

At Lǒr, dining transcends the ordinary and becomes an experience. The menu offers a global culinary journey, featuring everything from the delicate artistry of Japanese sushi and classic Italian pasta to the rich flavors of Lebanese and Indian cuisine, all thoughtfully curated alongside international favorites. Each dish is prepared with precision and creativity by a team of highly trained chefs, ensuring consistency, quality, and memorable taste in every serving.

The restaurant’s architectural design further elevates the experience. With floor-to-ceiling glass panels, tasteful décor, and panoramic ocean views, Lǒr provides an atmosphere that is both elegant and inviting. Its rooftop terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean has quickly become a favorite destination for sunset dining, private celebrations, and special occasions, offering guests one of the most picturesque settings in Freetown.

Beyond cuisine and ambiance, Lǒr Restaurant is widely praised for its exceptional service standards. Guests are welcomed by a professional and attentive team committed to delivering warm, discreet, and personalized service—hallmarks of true fine dining. From casual visits to exclusive private dining, every guest experience is treated with care and excellence.

Convenience is also a key part of Lǒr’s appeal. The restaurant accepts cash as well as digital and card payments, including Visa and Mastercard, and provides ample parking and valet services—features that underscore its commitment to comfort, accessibility, and modern hospitality standards.

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekdays and until 12:15 AM on weekends, Lǒr caters to breakfast lovers, business lunches, family dinners, and late-night diners seeking a refined atmosphere.

As Sierra Leone steps confidently into a new year, Lǒr Restaurant continues to raise the bar for fine dining and hospitality in the country and the wider West African sub-region. With its fusion of culture, cuisine, class, and coastal elegance, Lǒr is more than a restaurant—it is a lifestyle destination.

Happy New Year to all our valued customers. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to serving you even better in the year ahead.

📍 Address: Peninsular Highway, Juba, Freetown


📞 Phone: +232 90 002000


💳 Payment Options: Cash, Visa, Mastercard


🍽️ Cuisine: Italian, Japanese, Lebanese, Indian, International


🕘 Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Weekdays), until 12:15 AM (Weekends)

Lǒr Restaurant — Where Local Flavor Meets International Standards, and Fine Dining Meets the Atlantic Horizon. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/lor-restaurant-wishes-customers-a-happy-new-year-as-it-raises-the-bar-for-luxury-dining/