By Ebi Kesiena
Former President Ernest Bai Koroma of Sierra Leone has been summoned by the police for interrogation regarding the failed coup attempt on November 26, as revealed in a statement by Information Minister Chernor Bah on Thursday.
Koroma is required to appear at the Criminal Investigations Department headquarters in Freetown within the next 24 hours, according to the official statement.
Responding to the summons, the ex-president affirmed his willingness to cooperate, stating, “I maintain an open mind and stand ready to support the police investigations to the fullest. Let the rule of law reign supreme in our democracy.” He urged the public to remain calm amid the unfolding situation.
Last month, unidentified gunmen targeted a military barrack, a prison, and various locations in Sierra Leone, resulting in the release of approximately 2,200 inmates and the tragic loss of over 20 lives. Authorities later identified the incident as an attempted overthrow of the government, primarily orchestrated by Koroma’s former bodyguards.
Koroma had promptly condemned the attacks in a statement following the incident.
According to Sierra Leone’s information minister, a total of 71 individuals have been apprehended in connection with the ongoing investigation. This includes 45 active military officers, seven police officers, and 13 civilians.
The unfolding events underscore the gravity of the situation as Sierra Leone deals with the aftermath of the foiled coup attempt, leaving both the nation and the international community closely watching developments.
