A security guard at the Sierra Leone National Stadium in Brookfields was brutally attacked by foreign workers from the General Construction and Industrial Group of China (GCIGC) on January 26, 2024.

Vantage Newspaper reports that the victim, Mr. William Gray, was left badly injured after the attack.

He shared that he was on night duty, overseeing the renovation site at the stadium. Between 1:00 AM and 2:00 AM, Mr. Gray did his usual patrol and noticed a company machine lying on the ground. Concerned about its safety, he decided to move it to a more secure location. As he made his way back to his post, he came across several foreign workers, some of whom seemed intoxicated after leaving a nearby club.

Without warning, one of the workers allegedly picked up a shovel and struck Mr. Gray on the head, knocking him to the ground. The group then continued to beat him, leaving him nearly unconscious.

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“I’m still gathering facts about the incident,” said Alfred Tucker, Deputy Manager of GCIGC. He confirmed that Mr. Gray sustained injuries, including a head wound.

Tucker added that he received a distress call that morning while preparing for church. Upon arrival, he was told that Mr. Gray had been attacked by foreign workers, who accused him of trying to steal from the company.

Along with the assault, allegations have also come to light about GCIGC failing to pay National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) contributions, as well as other entitlements for local staff. Reports say the company has treated local workers as casual employees, paying them below the government’s minimum wage.

One year later, justice for Mr. William Gray has yet to be served, leaving many questions unanswered. This incident has raised serious concerns about how foreign companies treat local workers in Sierra Leone. This medium is calling on President Julius Maada Bio, the Parliamentary Committee on Labour, the Ministry of Labour, the Sierra Leone Police, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, civil society organizations, and all relevant authorities to take immediate action. Justice must be served, and measures should be put in place to stop such inhumane treatment of local workers.