By Forum staff writer
The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces has confirmed a fatal shooting incident that occurred at about 11 am today at the Armed Forces Training Centre in Benguema, resulting in the deaths of two military personnel.
According to a statement from Lieutenant Colonel Yayah Brima, Director of Defence Public Relations and Information of the RSLAF, preliminary reports indicate that Corporal Kamara, popularly known as No.9, shot and killed his superior officer, Major Abdul Larkoh, within the military facility.
Lieutenant Colonel Brima explained that immediately after the shooting, Corporal Kamara attempted to take his own life in an apparent effort to avoid arrest, investigation and prosecution. He was later found in a critical and helpless condition by fellow soldiers who responded to the incident.
The injured corporal was promptly arrested and rushed to the 34 Military Hospital for urgent medical attention. However, despite efforts by medical personnel to save his life, Corporal Kamara was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the military community and the wider public, as Benguema remains one of the country’s key training institutions for the armed forces. Both deceased officers were on active service at the time of the incident.
RSLAF leadership has since ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The investigation is expected to examine events leading up to the shooting, the relationship between the two officers, and any other factors that may have contributed to the tragic outcome.
Military authorities have assured the public that the investigation will be conducted with transparency and professionalism, in line with established military procedures. Findings from the probe will be communicated once the process is concluded.
In the meantime, security within the training centre has reportedly been reinforced to ensure calm and stability, while counseling and support services are expected to be made available to affected personnel.
The RSLAF has expressed deep regret over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of Major Abdul Larkoh and Corporal Kamara. The leadership described the incident as deeply unfortunate and contrary to the values and discipline of the armed forces.
As the nation awaits the outcome of the investigation, the incident has renewed discussions about mental health, stress management and conflict resolution within disciplined forces. Authorities continue to appeal for calm as efforts are made to fully understand the circumstances that led to the tragic events at the Armed Forces Training Centre in Benguema.
