Treason Charges in Sierra Leone: Two Accused of Plotting Government Overthrow

An initial appearance was conducted at the Freetown Magistrate Court No. 1 for two individuals charged with plotting to violently subvert the government of Sierra Leone.

Joseph Dumbuya, aged 50, and Ahmed Turay, aged 59, appeared before Principal Magistrate Mustapha Braima Jah. They are accused of conspiring to overthrow the government and participating in the fatal attack on a correctional facility in November 2023.

The defendants face charges of treason, pursuant to Section 3(1)(a) of the Treason and State Offenses Act of 1963 (as amended), and murder, pursuant to Section 1 of the Offenses Against the Person Act of 1861.

According to judicial records, between November 11 and November 26, 2023, the defendants are alleged to have conspired with unidentified parties to seize control of strategic sites, including the Wilberforce Barracks, the Joint Force Command Headquarters at Cockeril, the 3rd Infantry Brigade in Murray Town, the Sierra Leone Correctional Center, and the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation at New England Ville.

On November 26, 2023, the defendants reportedly initiated a violent assault on the correctional center, resulting in the unauthorized release of inmates and the death of Correctional Officer Obi Isaac Johnson.

During the proceedings, Detective Police Officer Hassan Andrew Sialas Commies, a prosecution witness, identified the second defendant, Ahmed Turay, in court. The detective testified that Turay was apprehended on May 12, 2025, and taken to CID Headquarters for interrogation.

The witness stated that Turay was cautioned and interrogated in Krio on May 13, 2025, with his responses translated into English and documented. The statement, bearing Turay’s right thumbprint, was submitted as Exhibit D1–46.

The detective also testified that the defendant was formally charged with treason and murder on May 13, 2025, following a subsequent interview conducted in Krio by Sergeant Solomon Amadu. The charges were confirmed and recorded as Exhibit C1–2.

Defense Counsel C. Kamara cross-examined the prosecution witness during the hearing.

Magistrate Jah adjourned the case to June 5, 2025, for further proceedings.

The trial is scheduled to continue as the prosecution prepares to present evidence in the coming weeks.