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Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs David Fortune has led a high-level stakeholder engagement and fact-finding mission to Moriba Town in Imperi Chiefdom following the death of resident Abdulai Sesay during a police operation on August 29, 2026.
The delegation, which included representatives from the Office of National Security (ONS), traditional authorities, community leaders and youth groups, met with residents at the Moriba Town Court in Barrie. The mission sought to de-escalate tensions, facilitate peace dialogue and provide a platform for residents to raise concerns about the circumstances surrounding Sesay’s death.
During the meeting, community members and youth representatives raised several allegations concerning the incident. One youth representative identified two police personnel by the aliases “Gbaki” and “Sparta,” alleging that they were directly involved in pursuing and mistreating the deceased.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Minister Fortune urged residents, particularly young people, to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the rule of law and encouraged residents to use established legal and security channels, including the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the ONS, to report their grievances.
Fortune also cautioned young people against drug peddling and substance abuse, highlighting the harmful effects of Kush and other illicit drugs on youth development and community safety. He stressed the importance of peaceful cooperation between residents and law enforcement in maintaining stability across the chiefdom.
Expressing condolences to Sesay’s family, Regional Police Commander South, AIG Joseph Ibrahim Lahai, reaffirmed the SLP’s mandate to protect lives and property. As an immediate disciplinary measure, Lahai announced the removal of an officer identified as “LA” from the Moriba Town Police Station following allegations of professional misconduct.
AIG Lahai assured residents that the other allegations raised during the meeting would be fully investigated.
Regional CID Coordinator South, Superintendent Bangura, appealed to eyewitnesses and residents with relevant information to come forward and assist investigators with the ongoing inquiry.
Beyond the immediate incident, community stakeholders highlighted broader security challenges in the area, including inadequate police manpower, a shortage of operational vehicles and motorbikes, and poor road infrastructure. They said these challenges have significantly affected emergency response times and security coverage across Bonthe District.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs reiterated its commitment to sustained dialogue among government officials, security agencies, traditional leaders and community members as part of efforts to rebuild public trust, address security concerns and tackle socio-economic challenges across Imperi Chiefdom.
