By Mariama Mansaray
Sierra Leone, home to around eight million people, is still facing the challenges of underdevelopment. The roots of the country’s eleven-year civil war can be traced back to poverty and injustice, which left countless citizens homeless and suffering from severe injuries.
In the aftermath of the war, various reconciliation efforts were initiated, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) report was put forward for full implementation to tackle the deep-seated issues that sparked the conflict. Unfortunately, both past and current governments have struggled to fully act on the report’s recommendations, a failure that many believe played a role in the unrest that erupted on August 10, 2022.
What began as a peaceful protest led by young people quickly escalated into violence, resulting in tragic loss of life and significant property damage. The demonstrators voiced their frustrations over the soaring cost of living, social injustices, and the government’s lack of action. Hundreds were taken into custody, while others chose to flee the country to escape arrest. Eyewitnesses reported that protesters were calling for the president to step down, chanting slogans in the streets until police responded with tear gas and live ammunition to break up the gathering.
According to a police press release, Moses Lavalie is wanted for his alleged role in the protest. Sources suggest he left Sierra Leone shortly after the incident while his exact whereabouts is unclear,
Another individual, Mohamed Sesay, is also said to have left the country, and police are actively working to track him down and bring him into custody.
Police sources have disclosed that the individuals on the wanted list were identified by informants who claim to have seen them during the protest. The government’s security agencies are diligently pursuing everyone believed to have been involved in the August 10 incident. While several suspects are currently in detention, others remain unaccounted for.
Authorities have issued a stern warning: anyone caught up in this situation will face serious legal consequences. Yet, there are still worries that some people might be wrongly accused, which makes it tough for them to clear their names while they’re in hiding or living in exile.
