In a dramatic turn of events at the treason trial underway in Freetown, the 23rd prosecution witness, Sergeant Mani Atomkuwa Saffea, provided a riveting account of his encounter with the assailants during the attack on Cockeril Military Barracks. His testimony sheds light on the purported motives behind the assault, claiming that the attackers expressed intentions to “clean up” what they described as President Bio’s “rotten system.”
Sergeant Saffea, a driver at the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), recounted the events leading up to his capture by the assailants. He revealed that upon hearing gunshots near Wilberforce area, he ventured outside with a colleague, Sergeant Koroma, who informed him of the attack on Wilberforce Military Barracks. Subsequently, while en route to his office at Murray Town Barracks, he was intercepted by individuals purporting to be part of the assault.
According to Saffea’s testimony, Lieutenant Colonel Johnson, accompanied by armed individuals, offered him a ride, which he accepted. However, their journey was interrupted when they encountered a blockade manned by attackers. Amidst the ensuing confrontation, Saffea and his colleague found themselves captured and held at gunpoint.
Remarkably, Saffea claimed that one of the assailants recognized him as a driver, and assured him that their objective was not to inflict harm, but rather to address what they perceived as systemic corruption within the government. Allegedly, they sought to recruit him for his driving skills, though their plans were thwarted, when Saffea identified an issue with one of the vehicles.
Further adding to the intrigue, Saffea recounted overhearing conversations among the attackers, including references to Colonel Sandy and discussions about accessing weapon depots. Notably, objections were raised by the defense regarding the admissibility of certain statements, but the presiding judge ruled in favor of allowing Saffea’s testimony.
The proceedings took a procedural turn when the defense requested an adjournment, citing difficulties in accessing their client, Koita, at the Correctional Centre. Despite their efforts to secure access, the defense expressed frustration over the limited interaction permitted with Koita.
In response, Justice Komba Kamanda granted the adjournment, scheduling the trial to reconvene on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
The testimony provided by Sergeant Saffea offers a glimpse into the complex web of motivations and allegiances underlying the alleged plot to overthrow President Bio’s administration. As the trial unfolds, the pursuit of justice is intertwined with broader questions surrounding governance and security in Sierra Leone.
