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The government of Sierra Leone has declared Alpha Amadu Conteh wanted following his alleged involvement in the violent protests on August 10, 2022, which resulted in the deaths of six police officers and 21 civilians.
Social media videos from the protest show large crowds, including Conteh, engaging in violent acts such as burning tires in Freetown’s east end and attacking police officers with rocks amid clouds of smoke.
The protests were sparked by widespread dissatisfaction with the government’s restrictions on the right to protest. The Public Order Act of 1965 requires police permission for demonstrations, which is often not granted, leading to tensions and unrest.
The August protest, which began as a peaceful demonstration led by young Sierra Leoneans including Conteh, quickly escalated into violence, resulting in numerous arrests and allegations of police brutality.
In response to the unrest, President Julius Maada Bio appointed a special investigation committee to identify and prosecute those responsible for the violence. Many of those arrested during the protest have been charged and sentenced to life imprisonment.
As the investigation continues, media reports have confirmed that Alpha Amadu Conteh is among the individuals on the police wanted list.
His family is reportedly facing threats, with authorities urging them to assist in locating him. The search for Conteh remains ongoing as part of the broader effort to bring those responsible for the August riots to justice.
