Sierra Leone has charged twelve individuals, including former police and correctional officers, as well as the former bodyguard of ex-President Ernest Bai Koroma, for their alleged involvement in the failed coup attempt in November. President Koroma is also considered a suspect and has been under house arrest since being questioned by the police last month.
The charges against the suspects include treason, concealing treason, and “harbouring, aiding, and abetting the enemy,” according to Information Minister Chernor Bah. He further stated that additional suspects are expected to face charges in the coming days.
The failed coup attempt on November 26 involved gunmen breaking into a military armoury and several prisons in Freetown, the capital, resulting in the release of almost 2,000 inmates. The violent incident claimed the lives of at least 19 people, including 13 soldiers, and was officially labelled as a coup attempt by the army.
In December, the government announced the arrest of 80 suspects related to the coup attempt, comprising civilians and active and former police and military officers. Among the wanted suspects, President Koroma’s daughter, Dankay Koroma, was also named.