By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
The Southern Region of Sierra Leone has been rocked by two suspected murder cases reported within the span of a single week, prompting swift responses and intensified investigations by the Regional Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
The quiet village of Massa Kpanguma, located in Kuamebye Krim Chiefdom, Pujehun District, was plunged into mourning on Sunday, 18 May 2025, after the body of Ibrahim Davowa Sheriff, a 40-year-old fisherman, was discovered floating in the Wanjei River, near a canoe crossing point.
Preliminary investigations suggest the killing was the result of a long-standing romantic rivalry between the deceased and another fisherman, Kenawova Musa Kollor (35). Both men were reportedly pursuing a woman identified as Zainab Sowa, from Bandajuma Sowa.
According to police reports, on Friday, 16 May, Kenawova allegedly went looking for Zainab but was informed that she had traveled with Ibrahim to a nearby village. Enraged by this development, he is suspected to have ambushed the couple near the river crossing the next morning. When he saw them returning by canoe, he reportedly launched an attack. Despite Ibrahim’s attempt to flee, he was allegedly overpowered, fatally assaulted, and his body dumped in the river.
In a surprising twist, Kenawova is said to have later approached the town chief, handing over the deceased’s slippers and admitting to a confrontation. However, he did not provide a full explanation and soon fled the area.
After a formal complaint was lodged at the Pujehun Police Station, a team of investigators and medical personnel visited the scene. The body was recovered, documented, and sent for examination. Both Kenawova Musa Kollor and Zainab Sowa have since been taken into police custody as investigations continue. A case file is being prepared for submission to the Principal State Counsel for legal advice.
In a separate and equally tragic incident on Friday, 23 May 2025, Issa Thullah, a 46-year-old businessman, was fatally stabbed at the Mattru Jong Main Lorry Park in Bonthe District.
The suspect, Abubakarr Kamara, a local mechanic, allegedly stabbed Issa with a skull driver during a heated argument over a rented phone battery valued at Le40. Kamara had reportedly borrowed the battery and failed to return it. When confronted by the deceased, the situation escalated violently, resulting in the fatal stabbing. Kamara fled the scene immediately after the incident.
Issa Thullah was rushed to the Bo Government Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The case is being handled by Detective Sergeant 11272 Brima S.A. of the Regional CID.
Both murder cases have triggered public concern, with residents calling for justice and stronger security measures. The Regional CID has assured the public of its dedication to thoroughly investigating both matters and bringing those responsible to justice.
Authorities continue to appeal for community cooperation as investigations into both cases progress, emphasizing that peace and safety remain a shared responsibility.