A member of the 3rd Infantry Brigade of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) stationed at Murray Town reportedly took his own life in the early hours of Monday, March 11, 2024.

The Sierra Leone Telegraph reports that the deceased has been identified by reliable military sources as Lance Corporal Kanyako. While initial reports hinted at the possibility of foul play, with some sources suggesting he was shot from behind, others allege that Kanyako, who had served for over a decade, used an AK-47 rifle belonging to his colleague, Corporal Kovoma, also stationed at the same Brigade, to end his life.

The reasons behind this alleged suicide remain unclear, as no suicide note has been discovered. However, military intelligence points towards a potential connection with a purported ‘promotion for information’ arrangement involving Kanyako and senior military figures.

According to sources, Kanyako had provided crucial information leading to the identification and subsequent arrest of Amadu Koita, an alleged coup plotter involved in the security breaches of November 26, 2023, particularly the attack on the Wilberforce Barracks in Freetown. In return for his assistance, Kanyako was allegedly promised a promotion during the next round of promotions.

However, despite assurances from a certain Colonel that his name would appear on the promotion list, Kanyako’s name was conspicuously absent, causing him distress and frustration.

The events of November 26 had sparked widespread uncertainty regarding the identities of the perpetrators, particularly concerning the assault on Freetown and the Wilberforce Military Barracks.

Kanyako’s testimony played a pivotal role in identifying Amadu Koita, ultimately leading to his apprehension on December 4, 2023.

When approached for comment, military spokesman Colonel Ibrahim Bangura declined to provide details, stating that the incident is currently under investigation.

A senior officer at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Freetown emphasized the importance of identifying the senior officer who allegedly promised Kanyako a promotion and the reasons behind the repeated failure to fulfill this promise.

Furthermore, individuals who were in contact with the deceased prior to his death are being sought to shed light on his state of mind.

Meanwhile, Corporal Kovoma has been detained at the Military Police Custodian Centre at Wilberforce, where he is assisting military police investigators with their inquiries.