Allegations of Police Compromise in Kono District Sexual Assault Case

By: Saidu Jalloh

serious allegations of compromising a reported sexual assault case from Koryadu village. Sources indicate that the alleged incident was reported on October 18, 2024, leading to the arrest of the suspect, identified as Tamba Senesie, on October 20, 2024.

Residents of Koryadu village have expressed concerns that some police officers at the Koakoyima Police Post are obstructing justice by concealing details of the case from stakeholders who are advocating for the survivor. When approached for comment, Officer Commanding Mr. Amara claimed to have little or no knowledge of the matter, stating that no such report had been filed at the post.

However, during a visit to the police station, our correspondent observed the survivor and her father present at the post, contradicting the officer’s assertions. In an effort to clarify the situation, our correspondent sent a text message to Officer Amara, emphasizing the importance of transparency to maintain public trust in the Sierra Leone Police Force.

In response, Officer Amara contacted our correspondent later that evening, stating that police protocol prevented him from sharing information with the media. He redirected inquiries to the media and communications officer of the Motema Police Division for further clarification.

Unconfirmed reports suggest that the case has now been escalated to the Motema Police Division. The survivor, a 14-year-old junior secondary school student, recounted her traumatic experience, stating that the alleged perpetrator lured her under the pretense of a relationship, then forcibly assaulted her while threatening her life.

These developments raise serious concerns about the handling of sexual assault cases in Sierra Leone and the responsibilities of law enforcement to ensure justice for victims. The survivor and her family are calling on authorities and stakeholders to advocate for justice in this troubling matter.