By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu – Bo City
The Sierra Leone Police, through its Family Support Unit (FSU) in the Southern Region, has launched an investigation into an alleged case of child cruelty involving Sheku Kallon, an employee of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA). Kallon is accused of subjecting his eight-year-old son to severe physical abuse, reportedly after discovering that the child had visited his mother.
According to reports, the incident is rooted in a longstanding domestic dispute between Kallon and his estranged wife, Aminata Kallon, which led to their separation. Aminata, who now resides at 1 Moriba Street, Njagboima, recounted her experience of domestic violence, stating that she had endured repeated abuse at the hands of her husband due to accusations of infidelity. Fearing for her safety, she moved out of their marital home, while Sheku remained at 60 Baimba Road, New Site Section, Bo.
Aminata formally reported the case to the police on February 11, 2025, prompting the arrest of Sheku Kallon. He was initially detained but later released on bail after three days to facilitate medical care for the injured child. However, following an order from the Regional Police Commander South, Kallon was rearrested and remains in custody as investigations continue.
Detective Assistant Superintendent of Police Mohamed Kanneh, Regional Coordinator of the FSU South, confirmed that the case has attracted attention from civil society organizations, child protection agencies, and the media. He assured the public that the investigation is progressing and that a comprehensive report will be forwarded to the State Counsel for legal review and possible prosecution.
Reacting to the incident, Martha Idriss Feika, Director at the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs in Bo, condemned the act as inhumane and unacceptable. She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of the child, emphasising efforts to provide health, education, and psychological support. The ministry has also recommended reuniting the child with his mother while seeking ways to mediate between the parents after the police inquiry is concluded.
Joseph Dominic Blackie, Chairman of the Civil Society Forum in Bo District, also strongly denounced the alleged abuse, urging law enforcement agencies to handle the matter with the utmost seriousness. He stressed the importance of enforcing the Child Rights Act, which protects minors from all forms of violence, and called for swift legal action against the accused. Blackie assured that civil society organizations would continue to monitor the case and work with relevant authorities to ensure justice is served.
As investigations progress, stakeholders continue to push for accountability, calling on the justice system to take decisive action in safeguarding children’s rights and preventing future cases of abuse.