A tragic domestic incident has sent shockwaves through the quiet community of Bottom Mango in Tongoh, Kenema District, where a 16-year-old girl, identified as Bintu, allegedly set her mother’s house on fire following a dispute over her relationships with multiple men in the area.
According to eyewitnesses and local sources, the girl’s mother, Fanta Umaru, had persistently cautioned her daughter against what she described as inappropriate and risky relationships for someone her age. The mother reportedly advised Bintu out of concern for her well-being and future.
In a heart-wrenching account, Fanta tearfully recalled how her daughter had previously issued a grim warning. “She told me that if I didn’t stop advising her about her lifestyle, she would burn the house down. I thought she was joking,” she said, standing distraught in front of the charred remains of her home.
The incident reportedly occurred in broad daylight, shortly after Fanta had left for the market. “Before I left, I noticed she was packing a bag. She said no one would sleep in the house that night because she would bring it down. Still, I never imagined she meant it,” Fanta added.
Bintu is said to have carried out the act shortly after her mother’s departure, setting the house ablaze and fleeing the scene. The fire quickly engulfed the property, leaving nothing but ashes and rubble.
Community members were left in disbelief over the incident. “It’s shocking and heartbreaking. We never expected something like this from Bintu,” said one neighbor, who witnessed the aftermath. Many have expressed their sympathy for Fanta, who has now been left homeless and emotionally devastated.
Local authorities are currently investigating the incident. While Bintu’s whereabouts remain unknown at the time of reporting, efforts are underway to locate and apprehend her for questioning.
This disturbing incident has reignited conversations within the community about the growing gap between parents and their children, the influence of peer pressure and social dynamics on teenagers and the urgent need for counseling and youth support programs.
As Fanta attempts to rebuild her life from the ashes, the community is rallying around her, offering both emotional and material support in the wake of the tragedy. Authorities are urging parents and guardians to engage more closely with their children and seek community-based interventions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The investigation continues.
