Lands Ministry Staff Accused of Unlawful Demolitions Worth Billions at Kissy Dock Yard
Kadijatu Barrie Staff from the Ministry of Lands and Country Planning are accused of engaging in unauthorized demolitions of homes in Kissy Dock Yard, valued at billions of Leones, affecting local residents.
Reports indicate that the demolition was led by Ngobeh, an official within the Ministry, who allegedly acted on behalf of a private client without the knowledge or authorization of key officials, including the Minister, Director of Lands and Survey Tamba Dauda, and the Permanent Secretary.
Eyewitnesses claim that Ngobeh enlisted a significant number of officers from the Sierra Leone Police, based at the Ross Road Police Station, to intimidate the residents during the eviction. While Ngobeh asserted that he had permission from the Director of Lands and Survey and the Permanent Secretary, both officials have since denied any involvement in the operation.
Residents, many of whom have lived on the land for decades and possess documentation proving ownership, expressed distress as they were forcibly evicted. The sudden action has raised serious questions about who authorized these demolitions and the role of the police in the operation. Concerns have also been raised regarding potential financial incentives for intimidation, with reports suggesting that Ngobeh and his associates may be working for a higher-up promising them one billion Leones in exchange for their services.
This incident underscores significant issues surrounding land rights and the rule of law in Sierra Leone, prompting alarms about potential corruption and abuse of power within the Ministry of Land and Country Planning.