Bishop, Four Others in Custody Over Tragic Deaths of Two Nursery School Children in Freetown

Five individuals, including the Bishop of the Pentecostal Church, are currently in police custody in connection with the tragic deaths of two nursery school children on March 18, 2025.

The children were found dead inside the school compound, and authorities are now conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

ASP Mohamed Benson Senu of the Sierra Leone Police Force confirmed the investigation on local radio on Thursday, March 20. He stated that five suspects are currently being questioned regarding the deaths, while a third child, a girl, was found safe and is reportedly receiving medical treatment.

The tragic event began on Tuesday, March 18, when three children went missing during school hours. Their backpacks were discovered within the school grounds, prompting an immediate search by the community. The search ended in heartbreak when two of the children were found dead.

The discovery of the bodies sparked widespread grief and anger among parents and community members. In response, tensions escalated, with some individuals attempting to breach the school premises. The police quickly intervened, deploying armed officers and later using tear gas to disperse the increasingly agitated crowd.

In a press release, the Pentecostal Church of Sierra Leone expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the two children. The church confirmed that they are fully cooperating with the authorities as the investigation progresses. “We are in deep sorrow regarding the tragic loss of our young pupils. The matter is currently under investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), and we are committed to ensuring that all necessary inquiries are conducted thoroughly and justly,” the release stated.

The church also urged the public to remain patient while the investigation unfolds, asking everyone to refrain from making speculative comments, particularly on social media, until the authorities have completed their inquiries. “We encourage the church members and the wider community to stay united in prayer and avoid further speculation,” the release concluded.

As the investigation continues, the community is left grappling with the loss of two young lives and anxiously awaiting answers.