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A land dispute involving a beachfront resort in Tokeh has sparked public concern after the demolition of the Sawi Beach Resort, reportedly valued at $250,000, despite an existing court ruling favoring its Sierra Leonean owner, James Lahai Sawi, a U.S.-based investor.
The contested property, comprising 2.5 town lots located after Two Seasons Hotel near the No. 2 River Beach, had housed five bungalows, a restaurant, and administrative offices, all of which were allegedly bulldozed under the instruction of Essam, a Palestinian-Lebanese contractor. The demolition is said to have occurred in violation of the country’s beachfront development policy.
Documents and testimony indicate that Sawi had legally acquired the land over six years ago, with paperwork from the Ministry of Lands, the National Tourist Board, and other relevant agencies. A case brought before Magistrate Isata Sellu Tucker in April 2024 resulted in a ruling upholding Sawi’s ownership. However, the structures were still removed, and construction on a new building has begun.
Sources close to the matter allege the involvement of Tamba Dauda, Director at the Ministry of Lands, in facilitating the handover of the land to the foreign contractor. Community members and stakeholders claim the incident follows a pattern of land disputes in the area, citing a similar case involving another Lebanese national, Ayoub, who reportedly seized and rebuilt structures belonging to a UK-based Sierra Leonean.
In a letter dated June 9, 2025, from Malaika Chambers, Sawi’s legal representatives accused the opposing party of forceful eviction, theft of property, and unlawful demolition. Items reportedly taken include televisions, fridges, beds, and personal effects.
Speaking in an interview, Sawi said:
“The court ruled in my favor. Yet, my property was demolished. What message does this send to Sierra Leoneans abroad who want to invest back home?”
He further criticized the use of police and land ministry officials in what he described as a “coordinated effort” to forcibly take over the property.
The incident has reignited discussions around land governance, investor protection, and accountability. President Julius Maada Bio, during a recent public address, acknowledged growing concerns over irregular land transactions, stating:
“We will have to call everyone to order from chiefs and MPs to judges. This cannot continue.”
While the President’s comments have been welcomed by some as a sign of possible reform, observers say actions not words will determine whether investor confidence can be restored.
Local authorities in Tokeh, including the village council and former and current headmen, have pledged to support efforts to resolve the dispute. Some recall the resort’s contributions to the community, including donations for a community center and employment opportunities.
Sawi maintains that he will continue to pursue legal avenues, calling for justice and warning that unchecked land disputes could damage Sierra Leone’s reputation among both local and foreign investors.
