By Mark Rogers
September 23, 2026
BO WATERSIDE, Grand Cape Mount County —Border security officers have arrested a 41-year-old Sierra Leonean national after allegedly intercepting 157 strips of Tapentadol/Tramadol during a routine search at the Bo Waterside Port of Entry.
The suspect, identified as Philip Lumeh, a Mende from Jendema, Sierra Leone, was reportedly arrested at about 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, at the Gate-2 checkpoint.
According to border authorities, officers conducting a routine inspection discovered the suspected controlled substances inside a green backpack reportedly carried by Lumeh.
Authorities said the seized substances are valued at approximately LRD $392,500, equivalent to about US$2,180.55.
Following the interception, the case was turned over to the investigation section for further inquiry and possible court proceedings.
Lumeh remains in custody as investigators conduct additional probes into the alleged possession and trafficking of controlled substances.
Authorities have not indicated whether formal charges have yet been filed.
