Man Arrested in Bo for Impersonating Police Officer

August 27, 2024

On August 27, 2024, James Jabaty, a young man known in the Bo No. 2 Extension community, was arrested for impersonating a police officer. Jabaty was apprehended by local residents while wearing a Police Operational Support Division (OSD) polo shirt, pretending to be a member of the Sierra Leone Police Force.

Residents had long suspected Jabaty’s activities and decided to act. After detaining him, they handed him over to local authorities, who then brought him to Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Brima Kanneh, the Regional Police Commander South.

Given the seriousness of the offense, AIG Kanneh ordered an immediate search of Jabaty’s residence. The search uncovered a pair of scissors and a knife, raising further concerns about his intentions. It was also revealed that Jabaty had been using a fake police ID card to intimidate and extort money from vulnerable groups, particularly motorbike riders.

In his defense, Jabaty claimed that the OSD polo shirt was given to him by his older brother, who he alleged was an actual police officer. However, attempts to verify this claim have so far been unsuccessful.

AIG Kanneh condemned Jabaty’s actions, emphasizing that such impersonation undermines the integrity and trust in the police force. He has instructed investigators to expedite the case to ensure that Jabaty is brought to justice swiftly. The police have assured the public that they will continue to provide updates on the case and remain committed to maintaining law and order in Bo City.