MAKENI – The Senior District Officer (SDO) of Bombali District, Charles Kailie, is scheduled to appear before the Magistrate Court in Makeni on Monday, May 26, 2025, following allegations of intimidation and verbal abuse against prominent philanthropist and former UN diplomat, Dr. Roland Turay.
According to sources in Makeni, the controversy began on Saturday afternoon when SDO Kailie reportedly called Dr. Turay, accusing him of tarnishing his reputation in the city. Dr. Turay, who owns the popular “Roland Beach” in Makeni, allegedly asked for evidence of the claims, which led to a heated exchange.
During the conversation, Kailie is said to have used offensive language and threatened Dr. Turay with police action. Later that day, police officers reportedly arrived at Dr. Turay’s residence in the New York community with a warrant and escorted him to the Mena Hills Police Station.
Eyewitnesses say the philanthropist was detained after giving a statement and was released the following day after senior government officials from Freetown intervened. Sources claim the intervention was directed at Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Victor Monfred Williams, leading to Dr. Turay’s release.
This latest incident follows previous allegations that Dr. Turay has been subjected to frequent police and court action allegedly instigated by SDO Kailie. One such case involved a summons to the CID headquarters in Freetown a month ago, reportedly based on what supporters describe as unsubstantiated claims.
“This is becoming too much. If this pattern continues, Dr. Roland may have no choice but to return to the U.S.,” said Alpha Kanu, a close associate of Dr. Turay. He also highlighted Dr. Turay’s philanthropic contributions to Bombali District, including support for education, health, and infrastructure.
The court is expected to hear the matter on Monday, with growing public attention on the implications for freedom of expression and the treatment of high-profile citizens in the region.
