By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has recorded a major breakthrough in its investigations into the recent spate of armed robbery incidents in Bo and Kenema, which claimed the life of Reverend Father Augustine Dauda Amadu and left the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) Manager, Mr. John Lamina, critically injured.
In a statement released this week, the police confirmed the arrest of five suspects believed to be directly involved in the coordinated attacks. Authorities also disclosed that one other person, suspected to be a receiver of stolen property linked to the incidents, is currently in custody and assisting investigators.
The deadly attacks, which have shocked the nation, took place in the southern and eastern regions of Sierra Leone. In Bo, armed assailants targeted Reverend Father Amadu, brutally killing him during a robbery that has been widely condemned by both the Christian community and the general public. In a separate incident in Kenema, Mr. Lamina was attacked and severely wounded in what investigators suspect to be a related criminal network operating across the two cities.
The SLP said intensive investigations and intelligence-led operations enabled them to track down the suspects. “Our officers have worked around the clock to ensure that those responsible for these heinous crimes are brought to justice,” a police spokesperson stated. “We want to reassure the public that we remain fully committed to ensuring safety and restoring calm in the affected communities.”
Police further revealed that warrants of arrest have been issued for four additional suspects who remain at large. These individuals are considered dangerous, and the public has been urged to provide credible information on their whereabouts. Law enforcement agencies are working in collaboration with local communities to close in on the fugitives.
The arrests and ongoing manhunt mark a significant step in tackling the growing concerns over organized crime in the country. Residents in Bo and Kenema have been living in fear following a series of violent robberies that disrupted normal life in the regions. Community leaders and civil society groups have called for heightened security measures, stronger community policing, and swift justice for the victims.
The killing of Reverend Father Amadu, a well-respected cleric, has left the Catholic Church and the wider religious community in mourning. Many have described his death as a tragic loss not only to his congregation but also to national peace and social cohesion. Similarly, the attack on Mr. Lamina has raised alarm about the vulnerability of public officials and the urgent need for stronger protection mechanisms.
Meanwhile, police have assured that those arrested will face due legal processes as investigations continue. They have also encouraged members of the public to remain calm but vigilant, stressing that community cooperation remains key to defeating violent crime.
As the manhunt for the remaining suspects intensifies, the SLP has vowed not to relent until all those involved in the crimes are apprehended and held accountable. The force has further reiterated its appeal for citizens to report any suspicious activity through established police hotlines or community security structures.
The successful capture of the prime suspects has been welcomed as a critical milestone in restoring public confidence in the justice system. However, authorities maintain that the fight against armed robbery and violent crime requires sustained efforts from both security agencies and the general public.
