APC Official Mohamed Moriba to Remain in Prison Over Alleged Incitement via Social Media

Mohamed Moriba, a politician, former military officer, and Southern Province Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the All People’s Congress (APC), has been remanded to the Male Correctional Centre in Freetown following allegations that he produced and disseminated digital content intended to incite unrest.

Moriba appeared before Magistrate John Manso Fornah at Pademba Road Court No. 2, where he was charged in connection with the creation and circulation of audio-visual material alleged to be capable of provoking chaos, disorder, and public unrest in Sierra Leone. No plea was taken when the charge was read.

According to the prosecution, the alleged offence occurred on Saturday, 27 December 2025, at Kamalo Village in the Karina Judicial District of the Northeastern Province.

Court documents state that Moriba is accused of producing a video clip which was later posted on a TikTok account identified as Salone Gossip Hub. The prosecution maintains that the content was designed to encourage instability in the country.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sorie Conteh, who is leading the prosecution, called cyber analyst Ibrahim Sorie Kamara as the second prosecution witness. Kamara told the court that he examined three videos retrieved from social media through the Scientific Support Unit at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) headquarters.

The analyst testified that while the videos did not contain direct instructions to commit acts of violence, their tone and content had the potential to incite unrest. He added that the material included language targeting President Julius Maada Bio. Kamara’s analytical report and transcript were admitted into evidence as “Exhibit A1–18.”

However, the witness stated that he could not establish a direct connection between the TikTok account handlers and the defendant.

During cross-examination, defence counsel C. Kamara applied for bail on behalf of Moriba, citing the accused’s ill health and the need for medical attention. Counsel informed the court that medical documents would be submitted in support of the application.

The prosecution opposed the bail request, arguing that the alleged offence is serious and poses a threat to public order. In his ruling, Magistrate Fornah refused bail, stating that the nature and gravity of the charge warranted the continued detention of the accused.

The matter has been adjourned to 5 February 2026 for continuation of the trial.