Extradition Act, 1974
The principal Act governing the extradition of fugitive offenders to and from Sierra Leone.
Summary
The Extradition Act, 1974 is the principal law governing extradition — the surrender of persons accused or convicted of crimes between Sierra Leone and other countries. It provides the legal basis on which fugitive offenders may be returned to face justice.
The Act sets out the conditions for extradition, including extraditable offences and the requirement of dual criminality, the exceptions (such as political offences) and safeguards, and the procedure for extradition requests, arrest, committal and surrender. It gives effect to extradition arrangements and treaties with other states.
It remains an important instrument of international criminal cooperation.
Main provisions
- Provides the legal basis for the extradition of fugitive offenders.
- Defines extraditable offences and the conditions for extradition.
- Provides exceptions and safeguards, such as for political offences.
- Sets out the procedure for requests, arrest, committal and surrender.
- Gives effect to extradition treaties and arrangements with other states.