Alleged Coup Plot Uncovered: WhatsApp Group Linked to Rebel Network Exposed

February 24, 2025

A leaked WhatsApp audio has reportedly exposed a plot by a rebel group to overthrow President Julius Maada Bio.

According to reports, the group, known as the Kalamera Security Network, was formed between June and July 2023, consisting of current and former security personnel, as well as civilians, operating in both Sierra Leone and Liberia.

Prosecutors claim that the Sierra Leone branch was led by Corporal Mohamed Koroma, who has since been convicted on multiple charges, including mutiny and desertion, and sentenced to 75 years in prison. The overall leader, Pa Sheka Idrissa Dumbuya, was allegedly coordinating operations from abroad before being arrested, while Abdul Maliki Kamara reportedly led the Liberia-based faction.

Investigations revealed that members used WhatsApp groups named “Leadership Forum” and “General Membership Forum” to plan their activities. Prosecutors presented audio recordings from these forums, exposing discussions about undermining key military officers loyal to the president.

One of the recordings allegedly features fugitive Captain Semion Idrissa Kargbo, also known as Itako, proposing to spread false accusations against six high-ranking officers, hoping to weaken the military’s command structure and pave the way for a coup.

Authorities confirm that Captain Itako fled after security forces disrupted the group’s activities, and further evidence is expected to shed more light on the extent of the conspiracy.