In a recent report disclosed by Andrew Mustapha Kamara, the Regional Commander of the Sierra Leone Police in the East, significant details emerged regarding an altercation allegedly instigated by Boss LA and his supporters against the Mayor of Kenema City Council and three police officers stationed at Wanjama Checkpoint in Kenema.

According to the report, the incident occurred on Sunday, May 5th, 2024, at 17:30 hours at Jembeh, along the Bo-Kenema Highway. Alqassimu Balde, a Guinean national in control of a trailer en route to Kenema, was reportedly assaulted by Alhaji Amadu Lamrana Bah (LAJ) and his supporters. The assault allegedly stemmed from accusations of reckless driving leveled against Balde by Boss LA and his entourage, who were en route from Bo to Kenema for a scheduled event at Kenema City Plaza.

Mayor Thomas Baio of Kenema City Council was coincidentally traveling in the same direction as the altercation unfolded. Witnessing the incident, Mayor Baio intervened and attempted to counsel Boss LA and his supporters on their conduct towards Balde. However, Mayor Baio was purportedly subjected to verbal abuse and insults by Boss LA and some of his supporters, including disparaging remarks directed towards his mother.

Subsequently, Mayor Baio proceeded to the Wanjama Checkpoint, where he reported the incident to the police. Upon the arrival of Boss LA and his supporters at the checkpoint in a convoy of eight vehicles, they were instructed to halt by law enforcement officers. Mayor Baio recounted the events to the police, detailing the verbal abuse and physical assault he endured at the hands of Boss LA and his associates.

During Mayor Baio's explanation to the police, Boss LA allegedly approached him, grabbed him by the collar, and forcibly removed him from his vehicle before assaulting him. Additionally, Boss LA and his supporters purportedly hurled insults at Mayor Baio and his mother. Furthermore, three of Boss LA's supporters allegedly ransacked Mayor Baio's vehicle, stealing valuable items including assorted diamonds and cash.

Police officers at the Wanjama Checkpoint intervened to quell the altercation, during which three officers were reportedly assaulted by Boss LA and his supporters. One officer, PC 21113 Sullay Momodu, discharged his AK47 rifle in a bid to restore order amidst the chaos.

In the aftermath of the incident, Mayor Baio filed reports of assault and robbery, while the three police officers lodged complaints of assault against Boss LA and his associates. Subsequently, Boss LA and three others were apprehended and are currently assisting with the ongoing investigation. Additionally, the conduct of the three police officers involved in the incident is under scrutiny.

Despite the tumultuous events, the report reassures the public that the situation in Kenema Township remains calm and peaceful amid the ongoing investigation.

This update sheds light on the complexities of the incident and underscores the importance of upholding law and order while fostering mutual respect within communities.