BY: MOHAMED SAHR
In a somber press update on Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024, held at the police headquarters in Freetown, the Sierra Leone Police delivered a stern condemnation following the tragic death of a motorbike rider and second-year student. The incident, involving Police Constable 21234 Abu Bakarr Kamara, known as Ferguson and attached to the Port Loko Police Station, has sent shockwaves through the community.
Commissioner Victor Manfred Williams, also serving as the Regional Commander Northwest, led the briefing, expressing deep concern over the events that transpired. A team of officers was dispatched to the scene of the incident in Port Loko, uncovering a disturbing account of the events leading to the death of Alusine Kamara, a promising second-year student at the Abako Institute.
According to Commissioner Manfred Williams, the tragic event unfolded on May 10th, 2024, near the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank in Port Loko, where Constable Abu Bakarr Kamara was stationed. The officer allegedly discharged his weapon, resulting in the fatal shooting of Alusine Kamara. The Commissioner confirmed the arrest of the officer, who was apprehended with his weapon at the scene.
Furthermore, Commissioner Williams detailed the chaotic aftermath, explaining that during the process of handling the deceased, a group of motorbike riders obstructed the proceedings, leading to heightened tensions. Despite the challenges, law enforcement managed to secure the suspect and transport him to the Port Loko Police Station.
Commissioner Manfred Williams assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway, emphasizing the commitment to pursue justice in this tragic case. He sternly warned that if Constable Abu Bakarr Kamara is found guilty, the full weight of the law will be brought upon him.
In a bid to quell rising tensions, Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu engaged with the bereaved family and Port Loko stakeholders, promising decisive action against such misconduct within the police force. He reiterated the police force’s condemnation of the incident and pledged that if the suspect is found guilty, he will face trial following the completion of investigations.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident reported by Police Sergeant John Abbas Kamara, an arrest was made in connection with the fatal stabbing of Ibrahim Kamara on April 21st, 2024. The suspect, Issa Turay, allegedly stabbed his nephew, leading to his tragic demise. Turay remains in police custody pending further investigation.
Additionally, Sergeant Abbas Kamara disclosed the apprehension of two individuals found in possession of a significant quantity of “cannabis sativa.” The suspects were caught unlawfully carrying 482 wraps of the illicit substance, highlighting ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat organized crime and maintain public safety.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Mary Esther Dukuray concluded the briefing by shedding light on the Sierra Leone Police’s commitment to professionalism and capacity building. Noting recent international training endeavors and in-house skill development initiatives, she emphasized the force’s dedication to enhancing operational effectiveness and upholding standards of accountability and integrity.
As investigations into these incidents unfold, the Sierra Leone Police reassures citizens of its unwavering commitment to justice and maintaining peace within communities across the nation.
