Hastings, a historic town in Sierra Leone, is witnessing a resurgence of violent land disputes as residents clash with the military over long-standing land ownership issues.
Despite previous court rulings by Justice Hannah Bonnie and declarations by former Minister of Lands Denis Sandy affirming residents’ rights, military personnel have reportedly continued to harass and assault locals.
The town, founded in the 18th century as a settlement for freed slaves, has been home to generations of families. However, recent events have intensified tensions. Adekilio Sheku Bangura, a local teacher, recounted his ordeal as military forces destroyed his property. Despite his efforts to avoid conflict, he was forcibly removed from his land, which was subsequently demolished under accusations of land grabbing.
Ibrahim Kabia, an elderly resident who has lived in Hastings since 1950, also suffered significant losses. His six-bedroom house, along with a newly built three-bedroom structure, were both razed by the military. Now homeless, Kabia and his family are struggling to find alternative accommodation due to high rental costs in the city.
The violence is not limited to property destruction. Ya Mabinty Kamara, another resident, reported being physically assaulted by military personnel while tending to her crops. Many residents accuse the military of conducting nighttime raids, leaving the community in fear and uncertainty.
As tensions continue to rise, the people of Hastings are calling for urgent government intervention to protect their homes and ancestral lands. The situation remains volatile as residents demand an end to the military’s involvement and a resolution to the land ownership disputes.
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