Orange-SL Launches of Weather Forecast Service

August 19, 2022

By Abubakarr Harding

Orange Sierra Leone, on Wednesday, 17th August 2022, officially launched a weather forecast updating system, ‘WEDA MASTA’, geared towards updating its numerous customers about variations in weather conditions during the dry and raining seasons.

Mabel Mason intimated the gathering that they are so excited to have all present to witness the occasion disclosing that they are about to launch a very exciting platform which will enable their customers to know about what the day’s weather would turn out to be.

Suleiman Conteh, the New Business Products Executive, in his statement, said that most times people are not aware of weather conditions when they wake up and want to venture out for work or go about their normal businesses, but stressed that Orange is poised to give the best on weather updates to its customers. He furthered that they choose to call the service “Weda MASTA”, because it is a local language for everyone to understand, especially those who are located in the provinces.

Conteh furthered that the service will provide the correct update of the weather, stressing that the update is about 90% accurate, and by using the shortcode *690# to subscribe with any mobile phone, without data services, subscribers will be able to know the weather condition for the day and even the layman without an Android phone will be updated after subscription.

He concluded that there is an option also to unsubscribe if one does not want to be updated for a certain period or reasons.

The CEO of Orange Money, who officially launched the Service, said the service will impact daily lives disclosing that what they are about to do is to give knowledge to every Sierra Leonean in various sectors, especially farmers who are in the agricultural sector.

He furthered that he is very excited that they are launching the service and enjoined subscribers to take advantage of the service and make good use of it.

The CEO concluded by thanking members of the Fourth Estate for gracing the occasion before officially launching the service by dialing *690#.

NP-SL Believes in Giving Utmost Satisfaction to Customers

August 19, 2022

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The leading indigenous oriented petroleum marketing company in the country, NP- Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) has a presence in neighbouring Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia where it is marketing qualitative petroleum products and at the same time offering other services to its numerous and esteemed customers.

Being a dependable business entity that has over the years demonstrated shrewdness and efficiency in the importation and marketing of various petroleum products among which we have diesel, petrol, gas, lubricants like Castrol Oil as well as other products, NP-SL Ltd has become a household name in those countries and many have reposed confidence in it for its timely service delivery and orderliness.

It is against such a backdrop that, on a frequent basis, certain savvy business individuals do not hesitate to partner or collaborate with NP-SL Ltd to open up Filling Stations in different parts in those countries. Such collaborations are bordered on mutual trust and the objective of not solely maximizing profits but to meaningfully contribute to the development of those countries through the rolling out of its Corporate Social Responsibility.

When cognizance is taken of the fact that the opening of new Filling Stations provides employment opportunities for the jobless then one comes to the realization that NP-SL Ltd is indeed making a meaningful contribution in the reduction of unemployment.

Looking at it from the perspective that youth unemployment is a real social malaise that most times leads to high crime rates then the fantastic moves made by the company in the area of creating job opportunities are indeed worthy to be celebrated. To take it a little bit further, creating job opportunities is another way of reducing poverty in the country.

One way in which the Governments of the aforementioned countries derive revenue is through internal mobilization of funds and one channel is via the imposition of various forms of tax. Business entities are bound by law to pay taxes. Filling Stations fall within that bracket and by extension they are large tax payers. Those taxes paid are in return utilized by Governments in the listed countries to provide basic amenities for the populace and fund other development projects.

NP-SL Ltd has etched its name in the sands of time as a company which does not compromise customer care and it is in that regard, long time ago, the company bagged the prestigious accolade of being 1^st for Customer Care.

Management of the company is of the firm conviction that giving utmost satisfaction to its numerous customers right across the country is very imperative. The company has in all its Filling Stations calibrated pumping machines which pump the exact amount of fuel requested for and display the price at the same time.

It is on record that the company markets cookers which are known as NP Gas, manufactured in different cylinder sizes. They are environmentally friendly, easy to refill with gas that can be secured at the company’s Filling Stations where NP Gas could also be accessed.

To simplify transactions, the company introduced the NP Smart Card which could be used to purchase fuel without using physical cash. As long as the NP Smart Card has credit in it such could be used to buy fuel at certain Filling Stations. It is a quick, safe and a secured way of conducting transactions which many have lauded the company for.

NP-SL Ltd is one company that long ago made it a laid down policy of predominantly employing indigenes everywhere it is operating. This policy is in sync with deepening the Local Content Policy which the company continues to uphold.

It can be safely anchored that indeed NP-SL Ltd is contributing greatly to the socio-economic developments of Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia. In all those countries the company is committed to give the best amidst the various challenges it is going through.

Mohamed Gento Kamara Reveals Operations Beyond Road Construction & Rehabilitation

August 19, 2022

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In an exclusive interview conducted by this medium with the Chief Executive Officer and Country Director of Gento Group, Mohamed Gento Kamara, he intimated that when they commenced business or operations, the focus was mostly on road construction furthering how they were yearning to partner with local and foreign companies with the avowed objective of implementing several projects.

The result-oriented personality disclosed that today they operate with three subsidiaries offering services in the construction and rehabilitation of transport infrastructure, as well as in the development of residential housing projects.

According to Mohamed Gento Kamara some of their key partners over the years include a local company called Betton-Villa Construction, which is now one of their subsidiaries and an Italian company called Factory Italian Motor Electric Turin (FIMET).

He divulged that the expertise of FIMET and their support has been very valuable for their success.

“Gento Group has become a key player in the construction sector, undertaking the building of multiple roads and bridges across the country,” he intimated with pride adding that as an entrepreneur and CEO, he is happy to contribute to the country’s development.

He told this medium that they now employ over 1,000 people and currently implementing multiple projects worth millions of dollars in various parts of Sierra Leone adding how they also work closely with communities across the country, providing support to residents where needed.

Asked what he makes up of competition, he responded: “I believe that competition is very important as the arrival of more companies translates to rising job opportunities for our people.”

He continued that increased competition also ensures higher operational standards as every player attempts to raise the bar arguing further that such has a positive impact on the development of the country, be it in construction, finance, agriculture or any other sector.

The Gento Group CEO maintained that they are a company that believes very strongly in ethics, discipline and dedication revealing how he considers himself as a very dedicated person who believes such is a critical quality to have in business.

Gento asserted that as a team, they have maintained a high sense of commitment from the genesis of the business emphasizing that their efforts have obviously produced great results saying he believes they will continue to thrive, even as the market becomes more competitive.

“I am very optimistic about the future and I see many business opportunities,” he said with determination adding that Sierra Leone still needs to make huge investments in developing new roads, bridges and rail infrastructure averring how such presents opportunities for players in the construction industry.

He said we currently face many transportation problems in Sierra Leone, partly due to a weak infrastructural network and that the country’s cities rely on produce and materials coming from all parts of the country, so it is important to have efficient transport links.

Gento also informed that Sierra Leone also benefits from vast minerals resources, which are mostly located in remote parts of the country and to export those minerals there is need for good roads and efficient logistics saying any country that wants to develop must have good transport infrastructure and he thinks there are many further opportunities to develop.

“Sierra Leone still needs to make huge investments in developing new roads, bridges and rail infrastructure,” he said.

In an eloquent response to a question posed he said their expertise and reputation make them a reliable partner for the Government and other private sector players in the pursuit of achieving the country’s ambitious infrastructure development goals.

Dilating on the rolling out of their Corporate Social Responsibility he said they are driven by a deep sense of patriotism he said he lived in the UK for several years and considers himself fortunate to have spent a small part of his life there.

“In the UK, I learnt generosity and the importance of serving communities,” he disclosed also stating how when he returned to Sierra Leone, he continued helping others and even spread this mentality to the people around him adding how unlike in the UK, there are many more people here who need help.

“Whenever there is a need to assist local communities or help the country during a natural disaster, I always bring my small contribution,” he said informing how he believes that if we are to change the social and economic situation in the country, we have to begin by changing the lives of individuals and then, collectively, we will become a better country.

Responding to what he would tell international investors about Sierra Leone, Mohamed Gento Kamara intimated that he would tell them Sierra Leone is an attractive investment market with many opportunities.

He continued that Sierra Leone borders the Atlantic Ocean, which means the country can be a strategic connection between the Western world and parts of Africa.

Gento expressed the view that Sierra Leone also has a rich supply of mineral resources and we are currently investing heavily in agriculture with plans of doubling agricultural production by 2025.

He maintained that to extract the mineral resources and attain our goals in agricultural production, the country needs investors stating how he believes investors from all sectors are welcome here adding that the country has a conducive business environment that enables companies to thrive and make good returns.

“I would therefore urge international companies to think about investing in Sierra Leone,” he concluded.

It must be noted that many have been commending Gento Group for its pro-activeness in recently mitigating a flood on Wilkinson Road due to heavy downpour with the latest being the First Lady, Dr Fatima Bio, who said on her Twitter account, “I returned home on Tuesday passing through Wilkinson Road. There was flooding everywhere and I can’t help but ask what do we have a Mayor for? Thanks to Mohamed Gento Kamara who came out to clear our gutters to allow free flow of water around the city. #Freetonians be wise.”

About Gento Group:

Gento Group has positioned itself as one of Sierra Leone’s leading companies in managing complex projects as it did in Sierra Leone.

The Group’s core focus is major national and provincial arterial roads and urban highways, bridges, culverts and road drainages. Their expertise extends to urban infrastructure and selects industrial, commercial, residential and sporting building projects.

Also, Gento Group has capitalized expertise in construction and redevelopment of communication routes, facilitating road transportation in Sierra Leone.

Gento Group maintains, rehabilitates, build paved roads, laterite tracks, interchanges, bridges and complex structures. It must be noted that the employees of the company work on urban roads and traffic signaling equipment and carry out earthworks, pavements, cycle tracks, incorporating sewage and rainwater drainage systems.

Afrimoney Partners with Easy Solar to Digitalize Easy Solar Payment

August 19, 2022

By Foday Moriba Conteh

One of the leading mobile financial service providers in the country, Afrimoney, in collaboration with Easy Solar, has on Wednesday 17^th August, 2022 unveiled what they termed, “Top UP Your Easy Solar Account with Afrimoney” Service. The service, which was launched at Africell Headquarters on Wilberforce in Freetown, will give Easy Solar customers the opportunity to Top UP their Easy Solar Accounts via Afrimoney.

In her address, the Co-Founder/ Chief Commercial Officer at Easy Solar, Nthabiseng Mosia, said that Easy Solar believes that access to energy is a human right of which she added that nobody should be denied access to energy, furthering that since 2016 when they founded the company they have been on a mission to light up lives and a vision to ensure that energy is affordable and accessible to all across the country.

She revealed that as of 2022 they have brought lights to over 150,000 households across the country. She stated because their vision is to ensure that energy is affordable and accessible to all across the country the company is offering their products on loan to their customers to pay between 4-6 months and up to 24 months.

Nthabiseng Mosia pointed out that the credit plans begin as little as 10 Leones (New Currency) per week of which he continued that they are powering everything from the smallest community, hotels, offices, and residential buildings.

The Co-Founder said that the partnership between Easy Solar and Afrimoney is so important because they have processed millions of payments on their internal platforms and have always used smart technology as well as excited to expand digitization in the country, furthering that they are proud to offer their customers to pay via Afrimoney which she said is an easy, affordable means of payment that could be done within the comfort of their zones.

In addition, the Head of Sales at Easy Solar, Horato D. Pratt added that Easy Solar has been embarking on lifespan distribution of which they are in all the 16 districts in the country and 155 Chiefdoms across the country, adding that currently the company has 32 shops and almost 400 agents countrywide.

He also used the opportunity to inform the gathering that Easy Solar has extended their arm of doing business to the Civil Service and that as of date they have over 10,000 civil servants who are buying their products on credit with the payroll deduction scheme.

“Easy Solar is a partner in power you can trust! We offer a wide range of high quality solar solutions, from portable lanterns to large systems for homes and businesses. Choose us for flexible financing, quality guaranteed and superior customer service,” Horato D. Pratt enjoined.

Speaking on behalf of Afrimoney, the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Africell, Joe Abass Bangura, expressed appreciation to Easy Solar for the partnership, which he said is a move in the right direction towards making digital payments easy and affordable across the country, adding that the essence of the service is to give the opportunity to Easy Solar customers to do their payments using Afrimoney as an easy, affordable means and within the comfort of their zones.

He revealed how Afrimoney has unique features that makes it secure to send the right amount of money to the right person at the precise time, making it the most reliable and secured mobile money service provider in the country.

Joe Abass Bangura noted that they are very happy to partner with Easy Solar to officially launch “Top UP your Easy Solar Account with Afrimoney” service which he said will provide Easy Solar customers faster, easier and safer payment option via Afrimoney, stating that such service enhances the general access to affordable energy solutions through flexible financial options.

He informed all that for any Easy Solar payment made via Afrimoney the customer will have 10 percent cash back on every service payment.

The Chief Corporate Officer said that customers who want to pay all what they need to do is dial star, one-six-one- harsh and select bills, select Easy Solar, enter their account number, enter the amount they want to pay and confirm the payment by entering their pin numbers.

Highpoint of the ceremony was the official launch of the “Top UP your Easy Solar Account with Afrimoney” service by the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Africell by Joe Abass Bangura and Co-Founder/ Chief Commercial Officer at Easy Solar, Nthabiseng Mosia.

Osman Tholley Declared Wanted: Vanishes as Authorities Pursue Him Earnestly

August 19, 2022

By Francess Wright

In August 2022, violent protests and riots erupted in Sierra Leone, engulfing the capital, Freetown and several northern cities, including Makeni and Kamakwie. Sparked by mounting frustrations over the skyrocketing cost of living, inflation and economic hardship, the unrest led to a nationwide curfew and a significant loss of life. By the time order was restored, at least twenty-seven civilians and six police officers had been killed, while 515 individuals had been arrested in connection with the violence, including cases of riotous conduct, arson and curfew violations.https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/six-police-officers-killed-sierra-leone-protests-police-head-2022-08-11/

In the wake of these events, one of this medium’s ace reporters, Alvin Lansana Kargbo, embarked on an exhaustive investigation into the underlying causes of the unrest. Through objective interviews and on-the-ground reporting, he uncovered a deeper narrative of economic despair, political discontent and the role of key figures in mobilizing demonstrators. Among the many individuals implicated in the unrest, the name of Osman Tholley surfaced repeatedly.https://www.france24.com/en/video/20220811-sierra-leone-imposes-curfew-as-anti-government-protests-turn-deadly

According to sources close to him, Osman Tholley was a well-known community activist and businessman, highly respected for his leadership and advocacy. Originally from Makeni, he had relocated to Freetown, settling at 14F Koroma Street in Calaba Town. His uncle, who spoke candidly with Alvin Lansana Kargbo described him as a passionate figure who fearlessly championed the concerns of the people, particularly the soaring costs of essential goods and services. He had become increasingly vocal about Government shortcomings, urging young people in his community to demand reforms and accountability.

On August 10, 2022, Osman Tholley allegedly played a pivotal role in galvanizing demonstrators in the eastern part of Freetown. Gathering a sizable crowd, he led a protest march from Calaba Town to Wellington, primarily within the Congo Water community, where tensions escalated. During the demonstration, a tragic incident occurred; a police officer on a motorcycle was killed amid the chaos. The situation rapidly spiraled out of control as security forces clashed with protestors, leading to further casualties and destruction.

In the aftermath, the Sierra Leone Police launched an aggressive manhunt for Osman Tholley, who was declared wanted on charges of riotous conduct, assault and murder. Authorities publicly urged citizens to report any sightings of him, providing contact details for law enforcement agencies. A warrant for his arrest was issued by a Magistrate Court on Pademba Road, mandating his immediate appearance before the Judiciary. However, since the crackdown, Osman Tholley has gone underground, his whereabouts remaining unknown.

The protests exposed deep-seated grievances within Sierra Leonean society, revealing a population grappling with economic hardship and a perceived lack of Governmental support. Inflation had soared to 28% by June 2022, exacerbated by global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Fuel prices had surged and essential commodities became increasingly unaffordable, pushing many to the brink of desperation.

While the Government condemned the protests, labelling them as acts of insurrection aimed at toppling a democratically elected administration, human rights organizations such as Amnesty International have demanded accountability for the heavy-handed response.

As the country moves forward, the legacy of the August 2022 protests remains a stark reminder of the fragile balance between governance, economic stability, and public unrest.

Jennifer Jones Makes History, Becomes 1st Woman Rotary International President

August 19, 2022

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The immediate past District Governor of Rotary Sierra Leone, Rotarian Christo Forster and the past Assistant Governor, Rotarian Adonis Abboud of the Rotary Club Freetown Sunset revealed that Jennifer E. Jones, a member of the Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland, Ontario, Canada, has been nominated to become Rotary International’s President for the years, 2022-23, a groundbreaking selection that will make her the first woman to hold that office in the organization’s 115-year history.

She will officially become President-nominee on the 1^st October if no other candidates challenge her.

This medium also was reliably informed that on the 8th September, 2022 she will be hosting a special lunch in Abidjan, Ivory Coast for 225 Rotarians, who are considered to be major donors, and the Sierra Leone’s Rotary will be in attendance.

It was revealed that the Sierra Leone Rotary has contributed tremendously in various sectors namely Hygiene & Sanitation as it has made significant in-roads or gains towards enhancing health care in the country as well as in providing mobility support to disable persons, provided protection for domestic animals such as giving Anti-Rabies vaccines to 10,000 stray dogs.

Commendably, the largest project that Rotary Sierra Leone has implemented is the ‘Water is Life’ as it has over a period of 12 years constructed 160 water wells thus helping more than 350.000 people nationwide to access clean water.

It must be noted that the Project is still ongoing totaling $.1.3 million through the partnership of the Indianapolis Rotary Club of Fishers although a generous part of the cost was provided by Sierra Leone Rotarians who are devoted and determined to continue their voluntary work .

Further disclosed that Rotary International was and remains in the forefront against the fight of polio with a contribution of $.1.3 billion

According to, Jennifer E. Jones, she sees Rotary’s Action Plan as a catalyst for increasing Rotary’s impact.

“As we reflect upon our new strategic priorities, we could have never envisioned that our ability to adapt would become our North Star during what is inarguably the most profound time in recent history,” Jones said in her vision statement. “Silver linings rise out of the most challenging circumstances. Using metric-driven goals, I will harness this historic landscape to innovate, educate, and communicate opportunities that reflect today’s reality.”

As the first woman to be nominated to be President, it was revealed that Jones understands how important it is to follow through on Rotary’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Statement.

“I believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion … begins at the top and for us to realize growth in female membership and members under the age of forty — these demographics need to see their own reflection in leadership,” Jones said. “I will champion double-digit growth in both categories while never losing sight of our entire family.”

Jones is founder and president of Media Street Productions Inc., an award-winning media company in Windsor. She was chair of the Board of Governors of the University of Windsor and Chair of the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce.

She has been recognized for her service with the YMCA Peace Medallion, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, and Wayne State University’s Peacemaker of the Year Award, a first for a Canadian. Jones holds a Doctor of Laws (LL.D.).

Jones has been a Rotary member since 1997 and has served Rotary as RI Vice President, Director, Training Leader, Committee Chair, moderator, and District Governor. She played a lead role in Rotary’s rebranding effort by serving as chair of the Strengthening Rotary’s Advisory Group. She is the co-chair of the End Polio Now Countdown to History Campaign Committee, which aims to raise $150 million for polio eradication efforts.

Jones recently led the successful #RotaryResponds telethon, which raised critical funds for COVID-19 relief and was viewed by more than 65,000. Jones has also received Rotary International’s Service Above Self Award and The Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service. She and her husband, Nick Krayacich, are members of The Rotary Foundation’s Arch Klumph Society, Paul Harris Society, and the Bequest Society.

August 10th 2022 protest saga… Police declares one Hamidu Bah wanted for riotous conduct

August 19, 2022

By Alusine Kamara

The Police Division in Makeni City, northern Sierra Leone, has declared one Hamidu Bah, wanted on the allegations of riotous conduct and destruction of government properties.

Bah, was alleged to be part of the August 10th 2022 riot saga across the country which led to the death of many civilians and law enforcement security personnel in Freetown and other parts of the country.

It was further alleged that, Bah played a great role in the riot by organising other youth to come out to join the protest, attacking and killing one police officer in Makeni City.

It could be recalled that on the 8th, 9th and 10th of August 2022, violent protests sprouted from various parts of Sierra Leone which disturbed the peace and stability of the State.

The protest which was called for by an unknown group called the People’s Power in Politics (PPP), was an uprising against President Julius Maada Bio led government for various reasons including unemployment, marginalisation, economic hardship and food insecurity in the country.

However, more than 20 protesters and bystanders, and six police officers, were killed during violent protests and over 515 people were arrested and prosecuted for offences ranging from malicious damage, arson, unlawful procession, riotous conduct, seditious behaviour to murder after the protest.

Speaking to this medium a week after the incident, Ibrahim Bah, father of Hamidu Bah narrated that on the day of the incident he was at home when he was informed that his son had been arrested and beaten badly by the police.

“I immediately went to the police station where I met my son in an unconscious condition with his hand broken. I confronted the police that my son was going to die if medical attention was not given to him immediately,” he said.

He said he was allowed to take his son to the hospital for medical treatment, noting that a week later whilst his son was still attending to medical treatment, he got information that an arrest warrant had been issued for his son.

“One morning, a van of police officers stormed my residence asking the whereabouts of my son and threatened to arrest me if I did not tell them where my son was. One of the police officers openly threatened to harm my son if he sees him because they have noticed that he is one of the youth who are causing problems in Makeni City,” he said.

He further narrated that the following morning he heard that his son’s friend by the name of Hassan S. Dumbuya aka Evangelist Samson has been killed by the police.

According to Ibrahim Bah his eldest son was killed in a protest in 2020 during the protest incident of the relocation of a standby 1.65 Megawatts Generator Plant from Makeni to Lungi International Airport in Port Loko District, North West Region and now the police is issuing arrest warrant for his other son and have started shooting and killing some of his friends.

Samuel Sesay Family Members Declared Wanted Again Following Deadly August 10 Protest

August 19, 2022

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Tensions between Sierra Leone’s two major political parties the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) intensified following a violent clash during campaign activities in Constituency 36, Makeni, on April 25, 2022, ahead of the general elections.

Violence erupted during simultaneous campaign events organized by both parties. The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) swiftly intervened and made several arrests. However, the APC claimed that the arrests disproportionately targeted its members, accusing the police of acting with political bias due to the SLPP’s control of the central government. The incident sparked widespread concerns of political intimidation and witch-hunting.

Among those arrested was Samuel Sesay, the father of Alimamy Samuel Sesay, an APC member who, along with others, was charged and brought before the court. However, during their transfer from court to the Male Correctional Centre, Sesay and several others managed to escape custody. Investigations later revealed that their escape was due to the negligence of a Sierra Leone Correctional Service officer. The escapees, including Sesay, were declared wanted by the authorities, and he was reported to have fled to a neighboring country.

Months later, on August 10, 2022, violent anti-government protests broke out in Freetown and other regions, including Makeni, amid growing public frustration over the rising cost of living. Demonstrators called for President Julius Maada Bio’s resignation. During the unrest in Makeni, sources allege that Samuel Sesay still wanted at the time was spotted among the protesters.

According to police sources, it was further alleged that Samuel Sesay was involved in the killing of a security officer during the protests. In response, police launched a raid on his residence in an attempt to arrest him. However, while he was trying to evaded arrest he was shoot to death by the Sierra Leone Police. His wife and eldest son Mohamed Sesay were reportedly arrested, while other family members fled including Alimamy Samuel Sesay. Their whereabouts remain unknown at the time of reporting.

Following these events, the Sierra Leone Police declared Alimamy Samuel Sesay and other family members. A nationwide manhunt has since been launched, but as of press time, Alimamy Samuel Sesay’s location remains unknown.

The case continues to generate public interest, with human rights advocates and political analysts closely monitoring the situation amid concerns of due process, political persecution, and law enforcement accountability.

Accused of Practicing Gay, Alim Samuel Saidu Escapes death in Freetown

August 19, 2022

Alim Samuel Saidu.jpg — The missing gay, Alim Samuel Saidu.

By Karifa Thoronka

In a press release issued by the Sierra Leone police on Thursday 18 August 2022 announcing the arrest of Alim Samuel Saidu of 14 Main Road Congo Town, Freetown for practicing gay have attracted many citizens going in search of Alim, as majority of Sierra Leoneans are against the crime.

The increasing reports of isolated physical attacks on persons found to be gay seem to have no end in sight as the recent case of Alim Samuel Saidu indicates. According to reliable source, from one Johnathan Kamara of Congo Cross in Freetown, he narrated by identifying Alim Samuel Saidu as one of his best friend since childhood, but Alim his friend had been very secretive about his sexual orientation since they were early teenagers. Until he finally catch him having sex with his male partner.

Whiles explaining to the media, Alim’s friend noted that when he visited Abass Fofonah in search of Alim in the Morning hour of 11 August 2022, he open the door and he could not bear the shock of what he had seen. Therefore, he decided to punch Alim Samuel Saidu on his face and reported the matter to the community chief.

Responding to the incident in disappointing mood, the chief Imam in the Community says that the act is not allow in the Country, and from religions perspective anyone involved in that practice must be kill.

Media Investigation prove that during a door-to-door headhunt for Alim, youth and angry community members ransacked Alim’s house in Freetown and that of his Mother’s place, leaving all his belongings and those of his mother’s property all stolen. Since then, no one knows the way about of Alim but it is believed that both the police and that of the community members are still angrily hunting him.

According to Sierra Leone laws, Lesbianism and Gay acts are totally discouraged and disallowed, the Sierra Leone constitution state that anyone caught in the practice must face a sentence of life imprisonment with hard labor.

Mabinty Kargbo Wanted By Police For Escaping From Custody

August 18, 2022

By Abdulrahman Kamara

Police sources say that they are looking for one Mabinty Kargbo in connection with the August 10 violent riot that resulted in the deaths of 6 police officers and 35 civilians. Mabinty was among a number of suspects arrested by the Kissy Police and kept in their custody, but were set free by protesters, who stormed the station, broke open the cells and set all the suspects free.

Investigation mounted by this medium revealed that Mabinty was residing at Portee, Eastern Freetown, and a stronghold of the main opposition party (APC), and her husband (Shiek Umar Kargbo) is a known supporter and Chairman of the party in that Constituency.

According to sources living in the area, she was at the next neighboring compound during the August 10 riot, but her husband (Shiek) and kid (Fatmata Kargbo) had left for Waterloo in the early hours of that day. One source disclosed that she was in her house when some ruling party youths in the company of some armed security officers stormed the house of Mabinty looking for her husband.

Our source disclosed that whilst hiding in her house, both her and Mabinty heard several gun shots coming from Mabinty’s house, and later saw the youths and armed officers depart from the house.

It was further disclosed that upon reaching at her house, Aminata discovered that her old father (Abdulai Kargbo, sisters and brother (Zainab, Adama Kargbo, Ibrahim Kargbo) had been shots and in a pool of blood. She is reported to have come out of the house crying. Our source further disclosed that angered by this incident, Mabinty had decided to join the protesters in a bid to bring to the attention the atrocity committed by the security officers and thugs to journalists.

Eye witnesses explained that Mabinty and others were pursued by the police around their area, and was caught when she fell down, and taken to the Kissy police station. One of the suspect, who also managed to escape from the police cell, who spoke to this medium on condition of anonymity, explained that whilst they were in the police cell, they overheard some officers threatening to rape them after their special operation is over.

She also disclosed that she and others were able to escape when some youths stormed the police station and broke open their cell, letting all of them out. She explained that everyone ran for their lives, and little time was available to check for anyone, but maintained that Mabinty was among those who escaped, but she does not know her whereabouts. She too explained that she is going to leave the city for fear of being discovered by the youths and the police.

This medium engaged residents in the area, who told us that since the shooting at Mabinty’s house, they have not been able to see Mabinty’s husband, kid or herself. They are also fearful of going to her house, as it is now a place of constant surveillance by some ruling party youths, who seemed determined to alert the police of any movement in the house. They also furthered that since the arrest of Mabinty, her whereabouts have not been known, but were only informed that Mabinty had escaped from police custody.
As we go to press the whereabouts of Mabinty Kargbo are still unknown.