The Masiaka Division of the Sierra Leone Police has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) shot two civilians at the Songo Toll Gate in Makoloh, killing one and leaving another hospitalized.
In a detailed security update, the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of Masiaka Division confirmed that a fact-finding operation was launched following the viral claims. According to police findings, there was no evidence of any gunshot incident resulting in injury or death within the Makoloh community.
Community stakeholders, including the Headman of Makoloh, told investigators that no such incident had been reported in the area. Police further confirmed that no victim or relative had filed any complaint regarding gunshot wounds at the Masiaka Police Station.
Investigations revealed that the misinformation stemmed from an earlier incident involving two youths from Makoloh, identified as Daniel Sesay and Abass Sesay. The pair were invited for questioning on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 and provided statements clarifying the circumstances.
According to their account, in the early hours of Monday, February 9, 2026, between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m., they were onboard a Howo truck attempting to bypass the Songo Toll Gate by using the old Makoloh road. They stated that the vehicle was confronted by an RSLAF personnel. Upon the vehicle stopping, the two youths panicked, jumped out of the truck and fled.
Police say the youths admitted that contrary to claims circulating online, they were not shot. One of them, Daniel Sesay, sustained a minor injury to his left arm while escaping from the moving vehicle.
The Masiaka Division also referenced previous concerns raised by CRSG Management, the authority responsible for toll gate operations, regarding the unauthorized use of the old Makoloh road as an alternative route. Reports had indicated that some youths were allegedly collecting money from truck drivers for personal benefit. Police engagement with community stakeholders led to the closure of the route, a move that reportedly faced resistance from some youths.
As part of the inquiry, the LUC questioned Staff Sergeant Sankoh, who commands four RSLAF personnel deployed at the Songo Toll Gate. He confirmed that the team is issued three AK-47 rifles with 30 rounds of ammunition each. According to him, a check conducted by military authorities found that no ammunition was missing.
Police have urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information. Anyone with credible information relating to the matter has been encouraged to contact 078155481 or 030272724.
Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
