The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Sierra Leone has initiated an investigation into Thomas Daddy Brima, President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), over allegations of embezzling $720,000 intended for football development. The probe also involves SLFA’s acting secretary general, Benson Bawoh, and chief finance officer, Ibrahim Bah.
ACC Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala announced on Friday that the trio is suspected of diverting funds from FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and the Sierra Leonean government between 2021 and 2025. These funds were earmarked for improving the country’s football infrastructure and operations.
Brima, who has led SLFA since 2021, denies all allegations, including claims of manipulating the tender process and awarding contracts to a company he allegedly owns. The three officials were arrested on Thursday but released on Friday after posting bail set at $500,000.
Kaifala revealed that the investigation focuses on a controversial pre-financing and reimbursement system, with records suggesting financial misconduct. Despite the allegations, Brima remains determined to seek re-election and is set to participate in SLFA’s ordinary congress on Saturday, where a new executive board will be chosen.
Kaifala emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and formal charges will be pursued if sufficient evidence is found