Treason and Murder Charges in Sierra Leone: Key Developments in High-Profile Case

In a notable judicial development concerning the ongoing treason proceedings in Sierra Leone, Joseph Dumbuya, aged 50, and Ahmed Turay, aged 59, appeared before Magistrate Shar Kekura at Freetown Magistrate Court No.1 on Thursday, May 15, 2025. The defendants stand formally accused of conspiring with unidentified individuals to unlawfully subvert the government of Sierra Leone.

The defendants face two serious charges: treason, as outlined under Section 3(1)(a) of the Treason and State Offense Act of 1963, and murder, as defined by Section 1 of the Offenses Against the Person Act of 1861. The formal indictment alleges that between November 11 and November 26, 2023, in Freetown, the defendants conspired to destabilize the government through violent and unlawful means.

Judicial documents indicate that the defendants allegedly planned to seize key military and governmental installations, including the 5th Battalion Wilberforce Barracks, the Joint Force Command Headquarters of Cockerill in Murray Town, and the Sierra Leone Correctional Center. They are further accused of attempting to take control of the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation in New England Ville with the intent to overthrow the government.

The formal indictment also asserts that on November 26, 2023, the defendants attempted to execute their plan by forcibly breaching correctional facilities and unlawfully releasing inmates. During this incident, Correctional Officer Obi Isaac Johnson was fatally wounded. It is further alleged that the defendants assaulted the male correctional center in Freetown with the intent to commit homicide and assume control.

During the court proceedings, the charges were formally presented and explained to the defendants; however, no plea was entered due to the severity of the alleged offenses. Prosecutor ASP Ibrahim Mansaray requested a postponement, citing the unavailability of witnesses. The defendants were remanded in custody until Monday, May 19, 2025, when the proceedings are scheduled to resume.

This case remains a matter of considerable significance in Sierra Leone, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding national security and political stability.