A close protection officer assigned to Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, died in a fatal vehicle accident on Thursday night.

The Chief Minister announced the tragic passing of his bodyguard, identified as Abdul Conteh in a public statement released on Friday. Dr. Sengeh described the incident as a “freak vehicle accident,” though further details regarding the exact location and circumstances of the crash have not yet been disclosed.

In an emotional tribute, Dr. Sengeh expressed his devastation over the loss, highlighting the deep bond of trust and loyalty the two shared.

“Abdul made me feel invincible. He never lied, never stole, never betrayed me,” Sengeh stated, noting that the two had become like family.

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The Chief Minister praised Abdul’s professionalism and discretion as a close protection officer, describing him as a constant but unobtrusive presence during his official duties.

“He was in every shot and yet not seen. He was always present and yet not in frame,” Sengeh wrote. “He listened to everything and heard only what he needed to. He was with me in every location. He was my shadow.”

Kate Krontiris, the wife of the Chief Minister, released a public statement mourning the loss of Conteh, praising his dedication and the sense of security he provided the family.

“Today, we mourned the loss of Abdul Conteh, the man who gave me comfort that no matter where my husband… was, he would be safe and protected,” Krontiris wrote.

She described Conteh as a “consummate professional” and a dedicated security officer who prioritized his duty to the country. Krontiris also confirmed that Conteh was a devoted family man, leaving behind a wife and children.

“He was a member of our Team — that family of public servants who, along with their own families, sacrifice long days and tireless nights in service of something bigger than themselves,” Krontiris added.