Staff Sergeant Alhaji Koroma, a key figure in the ongoing military Court Martial related to the failed coup attempt in Sierra Leone, has been handed a 30-year prison term at the High Court in Freetown on Monday, March 25th, 2024. The sentencing, delivered by the President of the Court Martial, was pronounced to be served concurrently.
Alhaji Koroma faced a total of 8 counts, including Conspiracy to Commit Mutiny, Mutiny, Failure to Suppress Mutiny, Aiding the Enemy, and Communicating with the Enemy, among others. His plea of guilty to those charges during the preliminary hearing in January 2024 led to the sentencing.
Expressing remorse for his involvement in the planning and execution of the November 26th coup, he appealed for forgiveness, claiming he was misled and manipulated by certain individuals, including Amadu Koita Makalo, who is also facing treason charges.
The Court Martial proceedings continue for the remaining 26 accused individuals who have pleaded not guilty to the 88 charges brought against them.
In a related development, the State Prosecution presented CCTV footage from the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, implicating Amadu Koita Makalo and other accused individuals in the breach of the Pademba Road Prison, where they are being held.
Alhaji Koroma’s sentencing underscores the gravity with which the authorities are treating the attempted coup, highlighting the significant legal consequences facing those involved.
