By: Ahmed Abdul Wahad,Ilyasa Baa
Residents of Kamaseh in Koinadugu district expressed deep dissatisfaction over the prolonged delay in the trial of the alleged gruesome murder of thirty-year-old Iyeba Sanda Barrie. Despite numerous calls for expedited proceedings, the case has yet to be brought to trial at the High Court of Sierra Leone, leaving the community frustrated and anxious for closure.
The tragic death of Iyeba Sanda Barrie continues to cast a shadow over the tranquility of Kamaseh Village, near Kabala in northern Sierra Leone. Discovered murdered and discarded in a nearby stream, the incident sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community, prompting an outcry for justice to be served. The community rallied together, organizing search parties and offering unwavering support to the grieving family, showcasing their resilience in the face of adversity.
Forensic examinations revealed evidence of a violent crime, intensifying the urgency to apprehend the perpetrators. Law enforcement efforts led to the arrest of a primary suspect, Alimamy Kamara, also known as Salone Money, marking a crucial step toward unraveling the mystery surrounding Iyeba’s untimely demise. The case was subsequently charged to court, and hearings commenced at the Koinadugu Magistrate Court.
Witness testimonies provided crucial insights into the events leading up to Iyeba’s murder, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding her final moments. Despite the presentation of compelling evidence by the State Prosecutor, including eyewitness accounts and forensic findings, the case was referred to the High Court in Freetown for trial.
However, the transition to the High Court has been marred by significant delays, leaving the family of the deceased and the Kamaseh community in a state of limbo. Their patience wears thin as they await the commencement of proceedings, hopeful that justice will prevail for Iyeba and her loved ones.
Iyeba Sanda Barrie’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew her, serving as a rallying cry for accountability and closure. As the community continues to endure the somber aftermath of this tragedy, their unwavering spirit remains steadfast in their commitment to honor Iyeba’s legacy and ensure that her perpetrator(s) are held accountable.
The prolonged delay in the trial has sparked renewed calls for action from both within and outside the country, emphasizing the need for expedited justice to protect women in Koinadugu district and uphold the rule of law.