By George M.O. Williams
In a well-attended stakeholders’ engagement on Thursday, March 6, 2025, the National Security Council Coordinating Group (NSCCG) led by Abdulai Caulker, the National Security Coordinator, engaged Malen Chiefdom authorities and SOCFIN Agricultural Company Management in Pujehun District. The meeting aimed to address the ongoing issue of palm fruit theft and the incitement of residents against key personalities in the chiefdom.
The NSCCG, the second highest forum for national security issues in Sierra Leone, comprises heads of the Police, Army, Correctional Service, and the Central Intelligence and Security Agency (CISA). Present at the meeting were high-ranking officials including the Director General of CISA, the Inspector General of Police, the Army Chief of Staff, and other security personnel, alongside chiefdom authorities.
Ansumana Mohamed Idris, Director General of CISA, emphasized the importance of Malen Chiefdom, especially as it hosts the multi-lateral SOCFIN Agricultural Company, which significantly contributes to the state’s economy. The engagement aimed to address the continuous theft of palm fruits at SOCFIN’s farm and incitements against key chiefdom personalities.
Joseph Belmon, Head of Liaison Department at SOCFIN, reported that the company had lost over one million dollars due to palm fruit thefts in recent years, affecting its operations and revenue. He appealed for additional measures to combat the thefts.
Regent Chief Alex Bockarie Lamin commended SOCFIN for their corporate social responsibilities but highlighted challenges such as thefts and incitement against chiefdom authorities. He recommended establishing a chiefdom security network, providing more job opportunities, better working conditions, and support for vulnerable women in the chiefdom.
Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, stressed the meeting’s importance to national security and promised support to SOCFIN. He warned individuals against palm fruit theft and incitement, stating that such activities would be legally pursued and prosecuted.
Brigadier General Kemoh Sesay, Deputy Army Chief of Staff, echoed similar sentiments, warning that investments not secured would lead to liquidation. Abdulai Caulker, National Security Coordinator, expressed dissatisfaction over the thefts and called for stringent measures to curb the activities. He reminded attendees of the ONS’s mandate to provide early warning and response mechanisms for state security issues.
The session concluded with a commitment from the Paramount Chiefs to curb palm fruit thefts and support SOCFIN’s efforts to improve the lives of Malen Chiefdom residents.