The Pujehun Police Division is currently delving into a reported case of alleged murder following an incident in Barri Chiefdom, Pujehun District.

According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Kenawa John Square, the Community Relations Officer attached to the division, the investigation commenced on Tuesday, 26th December 2023.

The report was initiated by Sheku Kpaka and Alhaji Jakema, residents of Potoru Town, who arrived at the Potoru Police Station at 02:25 hours that day. They presented an old silver knife stained with blood and disclosed that at around 02:00 hours along Jendema Highway in Potoru Town, Fodie Swaray, also known as Mukeh, aged 26 and a resident, had been stabbed in his right leg. Swaray was found motionless at the Potoru Community Health Center.

As investigations unfolded, one Mohamed Konneh from Largo Village, Barri Chiefdom, emerged as a suspect and is cooperating with the Sierra Leone Police in the ongoing probe. A team of officers from the Pujehun Divisional Headquarters, led by Crime Office, Inspector Kpaka swiftly responded to the incident. They apprehended 21 male suspects at the scene, all of whom are currently in police custody aiding with the investigation.

The authorities gathered statements from eyewitnesses, conducted an extensive examination of the crime scene, and reconstructed events before collecting evidence, including the alleged murder weapon an old silver knife, and blood-stained clothing purportedly worn by the deceased. The remains of Fodie Swaray were transferred, alongside the suspects and collected evidence, to the Regional Criminal Investigations Department (CID) South in Bo for further scrutiny.

ASP Squire emphasized the commitment of the Sierra Leone Police to uphold the law, ensuring that those responsible for the untimely death of Fodie Swaray will face legal consequences. He urged citizens to adhere to the law while assuring them of the police force’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property.

Legal actions are expected against the individuals found culpable in this distressing incident as the investigation progresses.