By David Coker
Authorities and youth groups in Rufutane Village, Marampa Chiefdom, Port Loko District, have reportedly declared Bobsin Koroma wanted following allegations that he was involved in a same-sex relationship with a man identified as Desmond.
According to local reports, the alleged incident occurred on 17 September 2023 in an unfinished building near the main highway leading into the village. Community members claimed that Koroma and Desmond were caught engaging in sexual activity, an incident that quickly spread throughout the village and attracted the attention of elders and traditional authorities.
Rufutane Village is described as a predominantly Muslim and conservative community where same-sex relationships are widely condemned on religious and cultural grounds. Several residents reportedly described the alleged act as being contrary to the values and traditions of the community.
Sources stated that while Desmond reportedly escaped during the incident, Koroma was apprehended and temporarily held in his late father’s room pending deliberations by village elders. However, reports later indicated that Koroma escaped before any final decision was reached, prompting local youth groups and community members to begin searching for both men.
Investigations further alleged that Koroma, said to be 16 years old, had been involved in same-sex relationships for several years. Some residents also accused him of influencing other young men in the community, although no independent evidence was provided to support those claims.
Investigations further alleged that Koroma, said to be 16 years old, had been involved in same-sex relationships for several years. Some residents also accused him of influencing other young men in the community, although no independent evidence was provided to support those claims.
Speaking to this reporter during a telephone interview, Samuel Jones, identified as the Youth Leader of Rufutane Village, condemned the alleged incident and stated that the community would continue searching for Koroma and Desmond. He also warned residents against offering them shelter or assistance.
Abdulai Koroma, uncle of Bobsin Koroma, also alleged that another individual, Edward Kargbo, introduced the teenager to same-sex practices at a young age. However, these allegations remain unverified.
Family members further stated that their late father, Mohamed Koroma, who was reportedly the head of the Poro secret society, strongly opposed same-sex relationships and believed such acts were not only against their traditions but also contrary to Islamic teachings.
Family members further stated that their late father, Mohamed Koroma, who was reportedly the head of the Poro secret society, strongly opposed same-sex relationships and believed such acts were not only against their traditions but also contrary to Islamic teachings.
Religious leaders in the community also reacted to the incident. Imam Mohamed Sidikie Conteh urged residents to uphold what he described as the moral and spiritual values of the village, warning against practices he believes conflict with Islamic teachings.
As of press time, repeated efforts to contact Bobsin Koroma for comment were unsuccessful, and the allegations against him had not been independently verified.
