Authorities in Sierra Leone have taken a Nigerian national, Patrick Nonso, into custody over alleged drug trafficking after his arrest at the Freetown International Airport.
The suspect was apprehended during routine security screening at the airport on Sunday. Reports indicate that officials discovered 46 wraps of a white substance believed to be cocaine in his possession.
According to a local media platform, “The suspect, identified as Patrick Nonso, was detained on Sunday, February 22, 2026, after authorities discovered 46 wraps of a white substance suspected to be cocaine during routine checks at the Freetown International Airport.”
Further details revealed that Nonso was travelling with an Italian passport at the time of the incident. Security operatives arrested him immediately and handed him over to the police.
Providing an update, law enforcement authorities confirmed that “The suspect is currently in police custody and is cooperating fully with investigators.”
Officials have since launched a probe to determine the source of the suspected drugs and to identify any possible accomplices. As part of this effort, “Authorities have opened an inquiry to trace the source of the suspected narcotics and to ascertain if there are accomplices,” the report stated.
The authorities have yet to file formal charges. They are awaiting the outcome of forensic analysis to verify the composition and quantity of the substance recovered.
Investigators are also examining the suspect’s travel history and immigration records. Airport security personnel were said to have worked closely with law enforcement officers in line with standard procedures.
Police authorities assured that more information would be made available as the investigation continues.
