By Stephen V. Lansana
Kamakwie, Sierra Leone – 4th September 2024: Police Constable Alhassan Tejan Kamara (PC 16023), stationed at the Kamakwie Police Division, has pleaded guilty to disciplinary charges for the brutal assault of his 19-year-old girlfriend, Isatu S. Conteh. The disciplinary hearing has recommended his immediate dismissal from the Sierra Leone Police, pending approval from the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The constable faced three disciplinary charges, including assault, failure to comply with police orders, and conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline, under the Police Discipline Regulation Code. The charges stem from an incident on Sunday, 1st September 2024, in Looking Town, Kamakwie 2, where the officer assaulted Isatu S. Conteh.
Following the hearing, authorities at the Kamakwie Police Division recommended his dismissal, which now awaits approval from the IGP.
The Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL) condemned the assault, highlighting the urgent need for accountability within law enforcement. WIMSAL welcomed the swift arrest of PC Kamara and ongoing investigations by the Family Support Unit (FSU) and the Complaints, Discipline, and Internal Investigations Department (CDIID).
Karene District Council Chairman Abdul Kandeh Turay also condemned the attack, calling it “heinous” and urging justice. He noted that the victim remains hospitalized at Kamakwie Wesleyan Hospital, fighting for her life. “Violence against women, in any form, is completely unacceptable and must be condemned by all of us,” Turay stated, assuring residents of Karene District that justice will be served.
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs called for a swift investigation and justice for the victim, urging law enforcement to rigorously apply the Domestic Violence Act of 2007. The ministry also advised against sharing distressing images of victims on social media, emphasizing the need to protect victims’ privacy and dignity.
Meanwhile, the Karene Women in Governance Network, alongside civil society organizations and local partners, has requested police clearance for a peaceful demonstration on 5th September 2024, protesting domestic violence against women and girls in the district. The protest comes in response to growing concerns over the rise in domestic violence cases, including the attack on Isatu S. Conteh.
PC Kamara remains in custody as investigations continue, with authorities taking witness statements and preparing to charge him in court.