What you should know
The Constitution protects the privacy of the home and other property, and law-enforcement searches must have a lawful basis. Search warrants are an important safeguard, although the law may permit searches without a warrant in particular circumstances.
If a search is proposed, stay calm and do not physically obstruct an officer. You may ask the officer to identify the legal authority for the search and, where a warrant is relied upon, to see it. If you do not consent to a voluntary search, you may state that clearly and politely.
Keep a record of what happened and seek legal advice if you believe a search was unlawful or property was improperly seized.
Legal rights and available remedies depend on the facts of each situation. Contact A4A if you need advice about how the law applies to you.
When to seek help
If you are unsure how the law applies to your circumstances, if your rights may have been infringed, or if you have been arrested, detained, threatened or placed at immediate risk, seek legal assistance.
Legal reference points
- Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991
- Criminal Procedure Act, 2024
- Other applicable search-and-seizure legislation
For Sierra Leone legislation, judgments and other primary legal materials, use an authoritative source such as SierraLII. The legislation that applies to an individual matter may change or depend on the facts.
Visit SierraLII