By: Problyn J. Alpha
Police in Koidu City, Kono District, have charged Ruth Ngegba with three counts causing grievous bodily harm, wounding, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm following allegations that she threw a corrosive substance on the face of her former boyfriend, Patrick Sahr Moyima.
The Family Support Unit (FSU) at the Tankoro Divisional Police Headquarters led the investigation. According to Inspector Paul Lebbie, Line Manager at the FSU, the suspect had been on the run after the incident was first reported. Moyima filed an official complaint with the FSU after the alleged attack, which occurred during a visit to Ngegba’s residence.
Inspector Lebbie explained that police initially struggled to confirm the nature of the substance used, suspected to be either acid or caustic soda, due to a lack of forensic equipment and expert analysis.
Following weeks of investigation, police located and arrested Ngegba in Freetown after receiving a tip-off from the victim. Acting swiftly, Inspector Lebbie coordinated with colleagues at the Hastings Police Station, who facilitated the arrest. An officer was dispatched from Kono to transport the suspect back to the Tankoro Police Division.
Ruth Ngegba has since been investigated and formally charged at the Sefadu Magistrate Court on the three aforementioned counts.
When asked about the suspect’s version of events, Inspector Lebbie declined to disclose further details, citing ongoing investigations. However, he confirmed that the suspect admitted to throwing soap not acid or caustic soda on Moyima’s face. Police have not yet independently verified the substance.
According to the victim’s statement, he was informed that his child was unwell and visited Ngegba’s home. During the visit, an argument reportedly broke out between the two, culminating in the alleged assault.
Inspector Lebbie commended Moyima for providing critical information that led to the suspect’s arrest. He also urged the public to remain law-abiding and to report incidents promptly, emphasizing that “the law, not the individual, is supreme.”
He concluded by assuring the public of the police’s commitment to professionalism and justice, stating, “The police will leave no stone unturned in upholding their constitutional responsibilities.”