By Foday Moriba Conteh
The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has launched an extensive investigation into allegations of divulging secret information and incitement against Idrissa Conteh, a resident of 42 Mountain Cut, Freetown. The investigation, initiated on February 5, 2021, at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on Pademba Road, links Conteh to activities that allegedly fueled unrest and demonstrations in several areas, including Freetown, Waterloo, Makeni, and Kamakwie.
According to a press release from the Public Affairs Department of the SLP, signed by Inspector General Ambrose Michael Sovula, Idrissa Conteh is accused of collaborating with political groups and individuals, including a Netherlands-based activist known as Adebayor.
Investigations reveal that Conteh and others allegedly formed a WhatsApp group in early 2021 to share confidential information and plan protests against the government, citing economic hardships under the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).
The police allege that the activities of Conteh’s group contributed to violent demonstrations on August 10, 2022, which resulted in the deaths of six security personnel and several civilians, as well as significant property damage.
Reports also suggest Conteh, a grassroots member of both the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and the All People’s Congress (APC), played a key role in organizing these protests.
A raid by the Operational Support Division (OSD) led to the arrest of several individuals associated with the group. However, during an incident at the CID Headquarters where angry youths protested the arrests, Conteh reportedly escaped custody. Since then, he has been declared wanted, with police displaying his photos at the CID and urging the public to provide information leading to his capture.
Under Section 4 (12), Cap 2 of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965, divulging classified information with intent to destabilize the nation is a serious offense in Sierra Leone, carrying a potential sentence of life imprisonment.
Despite the ongoing investigation, Conteh’s whereabouts remain unknown. The police continue to appeal to the public for cooperation, emphasizing the importance of national security and stability.
