By: Problyn J Alpha
Two men a civilian, Usman Koroma of Old Yengema Road, Koidu City, Kono District, and an OSD police officer attached to Tankoro Police Divisional Headquarters, identified as PC Prince Munda Robert are currently in police custody over allegations of fuel theft at the MEYA Mining Company concession in Nimikoro Chiefdom, Kono District.
In a video circulating widely, Usman Koroma, who appeared restrained and partially dressed in OSD fatigues, admitted that he was sent by the OSD officer to steal fuel from the MEYA Mining concession. He explained that the officer often escorted him through the former Koidu Limited Mining Company gate, while he wore the OSD fatigues to gain access and steal fuel.
Usman further revealed that he had successfully stolen fuel from the MEYA concession on two occasions. During his first attempt, he managed to steal two jerry cans of fuel, which he and the OSD officer sold and shared the proceeds. However, on his second attempt, he was caught and handed over to the police at Tankoro Police Station for investigation.
Police sources have confirmed the case and clarified that the OSD police officer’s correct identity is PC Prince Munda Robert (service number 22022), not Ibrahim Koroma as alleged in the video. Both suspects remain in custody at Tankoro Police Station, assisting authorities with the ongoing investigation.
In a phone interview, a MEYA Mining Company official expressed frustration over the frequent thefts of company property by unscrupulous individuals who covertly enter the mining concession almost daily. The official appealed to the police to conduct a professional and thorough investigation, warning that such incidents could undermine the integrity of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP).
According to reliable sources, PC Prince Munda Robert is among the newly transferred officers deployed to strengthen security coverage at the former Koidu Limited Mining Company concession.
In a related development, police at Motema Police Divisional Headquarters in Nimikoro Chiefdom have temporarily closed a pharmacy located in the Blue Zone area of Kokoayima, Koidu City. The closure followed an incident where an unidentified man, found in possession of a large quantity of tramadol, fled and hid himself along with the drugs inside the pharmacy due to police presence. The pharmacy owner reportedly locked the premises and left, taking the keys with him. The police, working in collaboration with the district Pharmacy Board, are currently investigating the matter.