By: Audrey Raymonda John
Former military officer Sallieu Jalloh, aged 52, appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 1 in Freetown, where he faces serious charges related to an alleged plot to unlawfully overthrow the Government of Sierra Leone.
Jalloh is charged with two offenses: Treason, contrary to Section 3(1)(a) of the Treason and State Offences Act No. 10 of 1963 and Misprision of Treason, contrary to law.
According to the prosecution, between 1st January 2024 and 13th March 2025, Jalloh conspired with several individuals, including Captain Aiah Aba Senessie, Sergeant Bangura of Waterloo, Retired Sergeant Kamara, and others, to acquire AK-47 rifles with the intention of overthrowing the government.
Detective Police Officer Hassan Andrew Sialas Combey of CID Headquarters testified that the accused voluntarily signed a caution statement in which he admitted involvement in the alleged conspiracy.
The prosecution further claims that on 8th March 2024, Jalloh directed Sandy Sesay and his group to remain on standby for an “imminent power transition.” He is also accused of contacting both military personnel and civilians to assist in obtaining firearms and ammunition.
Additionally, between 26th November 2023 and 26th November 2024, Jalloh allegedly failed to report treasonous activities involving Captain Senessie and others an act classified under Misprision of Treason.
During cross-examination, Defense Counsel questioned Detective Combey on the reliability of the accused’s whereabouts. Combey confirmed that Jalloh had claimed he was traveling at the time but added that he had verified Jalloh’s presence in Freetown.
When asked whether Jalloh had coordinated physical meetings related to the alleged coup plot, Combey confirmed this but admitted he did not personally visit any of the identified meeting locations.
Lead prosecutor Yusif Isaac Sesay declared the prosecution’s case closed, citing the sufficiency of the evidence presented.
Magistrate Jah, emphasizing the gravity and urgency of the case, ruled that it be transferred to the High Court for trial. He ordered that the accused remain in custody at the Male Correctional Centre and adjourned the matter to 11th June 2025 for committal proceedings.