The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has released a detailed report exposing significant human rights violations by the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) from 2015 to 2021.

The report, unveiled on August 30, 2024, at the HRCSL headquarters, follows a public inquiry initiated in January 2022. This inquiry, supported by OSIWA, UNDP, Irish Aid, and the Government of Sierra Leone, aimed to investigate complaints of systemic abuses by law enforcement. The investigation was triggered by numerous reports of misconduct and abuses in law enforcement practices.

Abu Bakarr Kamara, Director of Climate Change and Information Services, noted the extensive preparatory work, including consultations with civil society, NGOs, and law enforcement, which led to the collection of 178 complaints, 133 of which were admissible.

Commissioner Simitie Lavaly described the inquiry process, which involved hearings across various regions and three panels of HRCSL Commissioners and legal experts reviewing cases and conducting cross-examinations.

The report includes recommendations and directives for addressing these violations, in line with HRCSL’s mandate under the HRCSL Act of 2004 and its investigation rules. The Commission has imposed financial penalties on the SLP and RSLAF, ordering them to pay compensation totaling 475,100 new leones to victims. 

HRCSL Vice Chairperson Victor Idrissa Lansana thanked the supporting organizations and acknowledged the cooperation of the RSLAF. The report highlights the urgent need for reforms in Sierra Leone’s law enforcement agencies to prevent future abuses and ensure justice for victims.