Four Police Officers in Sierra Leone Face Dismissal Over Alleged Robbery Involvement

September 6, 2024

Four police officers from Sierra Leone's Southern Province are at risk of dismissal after being implicated in a series of robberies. The officers—Constables Saidu Sonny Lahai, Rodney Massaquoi (alias Junior), Richard Yambasu (alias Alphantic), and Patrick Rogers (alias Bgor Borbor)—are accused of collaborating with criminals in incidents across Taiama, Rutile, and Bo City.

An internal investigation by the Complaints, Discipline, and Internal Investigations Department (CDIID) and a tribunal held on September 4th and 5th, 2024, at the Regional Police Headquarters in Bo City provided sufficient evidence for their dismissal, pending final approval by Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu.

Three of the officers were part of the Operational Support Division (OSD), and one worked in General Duty. They allegedly used their positions to aid criminals, with their activities affecting the Imperi and Kakua Chiefdoms between July and August 2024.

One of the most serious charges involves Constable Richard Yambasu, accused of providing his police-issued rifle to criminals. Constable Rodney Massaquoi is also accused of robbing a disabled man, while Constable Saidu Sonny Lahai is believed to have information about a murder. Constable Patrick Rogers was allegedly in communication with criminals during their operations.

The Sierra Leone Police Force emphasizes transparency and accountability as the case moves forward, with further criminal investigations underway. The Inspector General’s final decision will serve as a critical precedent for future cases of misconduct within the force.