BY: MOHAMED SAHR
In a recent press conference held at the Sierra Leone Police headquarters in Freetown, authorities disclosed the arrest of ex-serving and current members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces. This collaborative effort between the Sierra Leone Police and the Office of National Security (ONS) unveiled a plot aimed at destabilizing the nation.
Assistant Commissioner of Police and Media Spokesperson, Brima Kamara, revealed that the arrests were made between Tuesday, April 16th, and Thursday, April 18th, 2024, in Freetown. Among those apprehended were individuals previously linked to the failed coup of November 26th, 2023, and the subversive activities of July 23rd, 2023.
Kamara emphasized the significance of the timing, stating that intelligence indicated plans to incite instability and undermine national security post-Ramadan. Notably, Captain John Conteh, a prominent suspect who had been on the run, was apprehended on Wednesday, April 17th, 2024. However, during his transport to Jui for custody, Conteh attempted to escape, resulting in a confrontation with law enforcement that tragically led to his demise. His body has been taken to the mortuary for post-mortem examination.
Abdul Karim Will, representing the Office of National Security, assured the public of ongoing collaboration between the Sierra Leone Police and ONS to maintain security in the country. Additionally, Commissioner of Police and Crime Services, Ibrahim Joseph Lahai, highlighted significant progress in the fight against narcotics, particularly kush, across the nation. He announced forthcoming mass destruction of seized narcotics and reiterated the commitment to enforcing strict measures against drug trafficking.
Commissioner Lahai urged the public to provide intelligence to aid law enforcement in eliminating the scourge of narcotics, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in safeguarding the nation’s security and well-being. As investigations continue, authorities remain vigilant in thwarting any attempts to destabilize Sierra Leone.
