Freetown, Sierra Leone – July 31, 2025
In a decisive move to protect public health and uphold consumer rights, the National Consumer Protection Commission (NCPC), with facilitation by the National Fire Force (NFF), conducted the safe destruction of a large consignment of expired and unsafe goods at the Rokel Fire Training Ground. The event was witnessed by CSOs and the media.
During the process, the expired goods were displayed so that CSOs and media houses present could verify before the destruction of the goods.
The destroyed items, which included expired food products, beverages, biscuits, tin foods, and beans, were confiscated from various shops and retail outlets across the Western Area during NCPC’s routine monitoring and enforcement operations.
Speaking at the destruction site, Mrs. Ballay Fullah, head of Consumer Relations Department of the NCPC, emphasized the importance of the exercise:
“This is a significant step in our continuous efforts to rid the market of harmful products that pose serious risks to consumers. Our mandate is clear; to ensure that what is sold to the public is safe, wholesome, and fit for consumption. Expired goods have no place in Sierra Leone’s markets (Section 70 of The Consumer Act 2020).”
Mr. Samuel Pratt, Communications Supervisor, warned consumers to check for the expiry dates on every product they buy, adding that they should not buy goods without expiry dates, as they may have been wiped off by the businesses, as in such cases those goods may have expired. He encouraged consumers to bring any complaint of expired products or defective goods to the Commission at it 28 Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown, opposite Rokel Commercial Bank, or contact them on mobile number +232 30-080-527 or on the same number on WhatsApp.
In his statement, the representative from the CSOs, Mr. Sonny Rogers, expressed satisfaction in being part of the exercise, promising to support the Commission in its work. He also admonished consumers to be mindful of what they purchase from business people by checking for the expiration dates on all products, as this will help them save their lives or families.
The destruction was carried out through controlled incineration, with technical support from the National Fire Force. Senior Fire Officer (name to place), who supervised the incineration, assured the public that the process followed all environmental safety protocols.
“The National Fire Force is proud to support this exercise. We ensured the safe burning of these goods without causing harm to the environment or endangering the public,” he said.
The NCPC warned that it will continue to intensify its market surveillance and crack down on traders who compromise consumer safety for profit. Retailers and importers were also reminded of their legal obligations under the Consumer Protection Act of 2020, which prohibits the sale of expired, counterfeit, goods.
The Commission encourages consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products or business practices via its line +23230080527 or visit its offices across the country.
This collaborative action underscores the government’s commitment to consumer safety, and strengthens the institutions working together for a healthier, safer Sierra Leone