By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Sierra Leone faced a severe crisis as a mass inmate escape unfolded during a coup attempt on November 26, 2023. That alarming event saw 1,890 inmates break free from facilities in Freetown, not due to vulnerabilities in the correctional system, but as a direct result of the sheer force employed by the coup perpetrators, who aimed to enlist inmates in their efforts to overthrow the Government led by President Julius Maada Bio.
Initially housing 1,919 inmates, only 29 remain incarcerated following the escape. The Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS) has managed to recapture 514 inmates, with another 90 returning voluntarily. However, a staggering 1,376 escapees are still at large; many believed to be engaging in serious crimes, including armed robbery and murder, some targeting law enforcement personnel and individuals who previously reported them.
In a letter to The Calabash Newspaper, Brigadier General Sahr D.T Ngaujah, Acting Director General of SLCS, assured the public of ongoing efforts to recapture the escapees, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies. Yet, this promise comes amid rising public fear and frustration as violent crime continues to escalate.
The urgency for an effective response is underscored by a series of brutal killings that have shocked the nation. The murder of 80-year-old businessman Salim Alie Dayeck and the mysterious death of Superintendent Adeyemi Coker have heightened calls for justice and raised concerns about the safety of law enforcement personnel.
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has vowed to use “the full force of the law” against those responsible for the ongoing violence. However, skepticism lingers regarding the effectiveness and timeliness of these assurances, especially as brutal crimes persist. The tragic death of Superintendent Coker has particularly underscored fears for the safety of both law enforcement and ordinary citizens.
At Superintendent Coker’s funeral, Bishop A.I. Wilson’s remarks struck a chord, capturing the widespread frustration with the justice system. The absence of police officials at the funeral only intensified public anger and sorrow, raising critical questions about the prioritization of justice in the face of such violence.
Sierra Leoneans are increasingly vocal in demanding accountability. The murders of Salim Alie Dayeck and Adeyemi Coker are not isolated incidents; they signify a troubling trend that threatens national stability and security. As citizens look to their leaders for prompt action, the call for justice resonates throughout the nation.
The country stands at a crucial crossroads. The escape from correctional facilities, combined with the surge in violence, presents a significant challenge to the Government. If urgent and effective measures are not implemented, the cycle of crime and fear could destabilize society.
President Bio and Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu must act decisively to restore public confidence. The people of Sierra Leone demand not just promises but tangible actions and accountability. Without addressing these critical issues, citizens risk becoming increasingly vulnerable to crime, undermining the integrity of the justice system.
As the nation mourns and seeks justice, the call for decisive leadership is more urgent than ever. Sierra Leoneans are watching closely, awaiting meaningful action in a landscape marred by violence and uncertainty. This is not merely a plea for individual cases; it is a demand for the restoration of safety, dignity and trust in the governance of our beloved nation.
