Yusuff Kamara, a staunch supporter of Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), and resident of 69C Kissy Bye Pass Road, Freetown, has reportedly fled for his life. Speaking from an undisclosed location, Kamara recounted his ordeal, which began on June 10, 2019, during a party meeting called by APC Eastern Region Chairman, Mohamed Med Kay Kamara, at Eastern Paddies, Kissy Old Road.
According to Kamara, police stormed the meeting, citing unlawful assembly and failure to secure police clearance for the gathering. Attendees were arrested, beaten and detained at a notorious facility known as “Benghazi,” described as filthy and inhumane, with human waste scattered around. This location has reportedly been used to hold opposition members, keeping them isolated from public view.
Kamara stated that after initial detention, he and others were transferred to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for questioning. The police subsequently conducted a search of Kamara’s residence, labeling him a key APC figure in Freetown’s eastern region.
During the search, Kamara claimed he managed to escape by requesting to use the bathroom, slipping through a side door. He credited his escape to the help of a pastor, who preferred to remain anonymous, and ultimately assisted him in fleeing the country in July 2019. Kamara revealed that he has been a member of the APC since 2002.
In response to these events, Mohamed Barrie, Public Relations Officer of the APC Eastern Region, accused the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) of targeting opposition supporters since assuming power. He alleged that arrests, detentions, and killings have been used to suppress political dissent. Barrie specifically cited the June 10, 2019, arrests at Eastern Paddies, stating that some supporters remain in prison while others have been forced into hiding.
Barrie called on the police to release detained supporters and uphold democratic principles. He also urged families of the detainees to remain patient as the situation unfolds.
When contacted for comment, the police spokesperson declined, stating that the matter is still under investigation.
This publication will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on the detainees and the outcome of this case.
