SLAJ Condemns Alleged Assault on Media Trainer at Adonkia Police Station

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has strongly condemned the alleged assault and reported misconduct involving officers of the Sierra Leone Police against Paul Kamara.

In a press release dated April 5, 2026, SLAJ stated that the incident reportedly occurred on the evening of April 4 at Adonkia Police Station in the Western Rural District.

According to the Association, Kamara, a media trainer and legal practitioner, had visited the station in connection with an ongoing investigation into the death of his colleague, Augustine Sensie Bangura, when the alleged incident took place.

SLAJ noted that, based on Kamara’s account, he was subjected to an alleged physical assault, including being forcibly restrained, dragged, and pepper-sprayed by police officers following an interaction at the premises. The Association stated that these allegations, if substantiated, raise serious concerns about the use of force, professional conduct, and respect for citizens’ rights.

While noting that it has not yet received an official response from the Sierra Leone Police, SLAJ described the matter as grave and called on the leadership of the force to conduct an immediate, thorough, and impartial investigation. The Association further urged that any officers found responsible be held accountable in accordance with the law.

SLAJ also called for the safety and protection of Kamara and potential witnesses, urging oversight bodies, including the Independent Police Complaints Board, to closely monitor the process to ensure transparency and justice.

The Association emphasized that respect for the rule of law, professionalism, and accountability must remain central to policing, warning that such alleged abuses, if left unaddressed, could erode public confidence in law enforcement institutions.

SLAJ stated that it will continue to monitor developments closely and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at ensuring justice and accountability.