An important step in the ongoing investigation has been taken with the extradition of five former fugitives to Sierra Leone, who were apprehended in Guinea for their involvement in the November 26, 2023, failed coup attempt. The individuals were turned over to law enforcement authorities in Sierra Leone.
The
Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Information and Civic
Education, confirmed the extradition in a press release. The statement detailed
that the fugitives were captured in a joint operation conducted by Guinean and
Sierra Leonean security forces. The names of the apprehended individuals are:
- Major F.S Kamara
- Major Patrick Abu Odendeh Sesay
(a.k.a PAO)
- Major Juana Kabba
- Fatmata Koroma
- Major I Bangura
The
joint operation underscores the two countries' collaborative efforts to maintain regional security and uphold justice. The government stated
that all five fugitives will undergo thorough interrogation by Sierra Leonean
law enforcement authorities to ascertain the full extent of their involvement
in the coup attempt and to gather further information that could be crucial to
the investigation.
Expressing gratitude to the Guinean authorities, the Government of Sierra Leone highlighted the strong bilateral relations between the two nations that facilitated these arrests.
The statement read, "The strong bilateral
relations between Sierra Leone and Guinea have been instrumental in the
successful capture and extradition of these individuals." This
acknowledgment underscores the importance of international cooperation in
addressing security challenges.
The
Government also recognized the invaluable role played by citizens in both
countries and the international community. "We acknowledge the crucial
role played by citizens, both locally and internationally, in providing
valuable information that led to the successful capture of these
individuals," the press release stated. This emphasizes the importance of
public participation in security operations and the broader fight against
destabilizing activities.
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education assured the public of ongoing updates as the investigation and legal proceedings continue.
"We will keep
the public informed with regular updates as the investigation progresses and
legal proceedings unfold," the Ministry noted, aiming to maintain
transparency and public confidence in the process.
The
extradition of these fugitives marks a significant milestone in the efforts to
address the failed coup attempt and bring those responsible to justice. As the
investigation continues, the government’s actions reflect a commitment to
upholding the rule of law and ensuring the stability of Sierra Leone.
This
development serves as a reminder of the importance of regional cooperation and
the collective efforts required to maintain peace and security in West Africa.
The successful extradition demonstrates that, through collaboration and
vigilance, nations can effectively combat threats to their stability and
sovereignty.