Ex-Military Officer Jalloh Remanded in Treason Case After Witness Testimony

In a pivotal development in the treason trial, former military officer Sallieu Jalloh, aged 52, has been remanded in custody pending further proceedings, following the testimony of a key witness in court.

Jalloh, a former military officer, appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah at Pademba Road Court No.1, facing charges of treason and misprision of treason. 

The court was informed that Jalloh allegedly conspired with others to unlawfully overthrow the government of Sierra Leone.

According to the charge sheet, Jalloh is accused of planning to overthrow the government between January 1, 2024, and March 13, 2025. 

The alleged conspiracy involved acquiring AK-47 rifles and ammunition for use by Captain Aiah Aba Senessie and others to execute the coup.

The prosecution claims that Jalloh contacted Retired Sergeant Kamara in Waterloo to procure the rifles and also engaged police officers and military personnel to facilitate the acquisition. Jalloh is further accused of instructing his accomplices to be ready to carry out their planned power transition on March 8, 2024.

Additionally, Jalloh is accused of concealing the treasonous activities of Captain Aiah Aba Senessie and others between November 26, 2023, and November 26, 2024.

Prosecutor Yusif Isaac Sesay Esq. led the case for the prosecution, with the first witness, DPC 1818 Hassan Sillas Combay, testifying that Jalloh was cautioned and questioned in Krio regarding his statement to the police, which he acknowledged as true and correct. This statement was submitted in court as Exhibit A1-2.

Additional witnesses are expected to testify. Meanwhile, Magistrate Jah denied bail for Jalloh and adjourned the proceedings to June 5, 2025, for the continuation of the trial.