By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) announced during the first weekly Government press briefing of 2024, held on Tuesday, January 9th, that it has discharged 48 RSLAF personnel affiliated with an illicit social networking group known as the ‘Calamera Security Group.’
Colonel Issa Bangura the representative of RSLAF at the press conference and the Communication Lead, disclosed that an investigation, jointly conducted by the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces and the Sierra Leone Police in July 2023, brought the group to their attention.
The inquiry identified RSLAF personnel involved in the illegal group and revealed subversive activities against the state. Colonel Conteh highlighted that the group’s agenda was to overthrow the democratically elected Government of President Julius Maada Bio.
The investigation was initiated when Corporal Koroma abandoned his vehicle at the Wilberforce Barracks. Upon searching the vehicle, a list of RSLAF personnel names associated with the ‘Calamera Group’ was discovered.
Colonel Bangura justified the discharge, stating that existing RSLAF policies prohibit serving personnel from joining pressure groups or participating in critical public discussions. Violating this rule is considered a crime against RSLAF, which is governed by both civil and military laws.
Colonel I. Bangura referred to Sections 26 and 27 A and B of the Army Order’s Act, emphasizing that these sections empower the Armed Forces to remove or request the resignation of any member for misconduct. He explained that a service test is conducted to assess the level of misconduct, with commanders responsible for determining if the misconduct could adversely affect operational effectiveness.
Furthermore, he clarified that officers involved were issued stern warnings before the discharge, taking into account the potential consequences. He noted that the decisive factor in the discharge was the affiliation of some members with the ‘Calamera Group,’ particularly those linked to the failed attempted coup on November 26, 2023.