Sierra Leone Ambassador Engages Turkish Migration Authorities, Visits Detention Centers in Istanbul

Sierra Leone Ambassador Engages Turkish Migration Authorities, Visits Detention Centers in Istanbul

Istanbul, Türkiye, Tuesday, 17 February 2026 — Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Her Excellency Francess Virginia Anderson, PhD, has conducted official visits to the Çatalca and Arnavutköy Detention Centers in Istanbul as part of her week-long working engagements, meeting senior officials of the Presidency of Migration Management (PMM) to address issues affecting Sierra Leonean nationals in detention.

During high-level discussions with migration officials, both sides agreed on measures to strengthen coordination between the Embassy and Turkish authorities. Mr. Burak Dağgez was formally designated as the primary Point of Contact for all matters relating to Emergency Travel Certificates (ETCs) and repatriation processes, a move expected to improve communication and operational efficiency. In addition, Mr. Dağgez committed to personally overseeing the medical and welfare needs of identified Sierra Leonean detainees to ensure timely humanitarian support.

Ambassador Anderson engaged directly with 76 Sierra Leonean nationals currently held at the centers. Turkish authorities clarified that none of the detainees face criminal charges, stating that their detention is solely due to visa overstays and administrative immigration violations.

Officials further explained that individuals who choose voluntary return will not be classified as deported and will face a maximum six-month entry ban. Authorities also dispelled misconceptions regarding the “12-month rule,” emphasizing that reaching the administrative detention limit does not grant legal residency. Individuals conditionally released must comply with strict reporting requirements or risk re-detention.

The visit was widely commended and resulted in strengthened cooperation on migration management, clearer procedures for voluntary return, and enhanced humanitarian coordination.

The engagement reaffirms Sierra Leone’s commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of its citizens abroad while maintaining constructive collaboration with the Government of Türkiye on migration matters.

For Further Inquiries:
Sierra Leone Embassy Ankara, Türkiye
info@tr.slembassy.gov.tr
X: @TurkeySLE
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