Six Sierra Leonean Soldiers Sentenced to Over 300 Years for Attempted Coup

February 13, 2025

Six military officers in Sierra Leone have been sentenced to a combined total of more than 300 years in prison after being found guilty of plotting to overthrow the government of President Julius Maada Bio.

The Court Martial delivered its verdict on February 12, 2025, after a lengthy trial that began in October 2024. The officers faced charges including mutiny, failure to suppress mutiny, and desertion. Despite pleading not guilty, they were convicted based on the evidence presented.

The sentences are as follows:

Major Patrick Abu Ordende Sesay – 75 years

Major Juana Kabbah – 60 years

Major Foday Sumana Kamara – 60 years

Major Ibrahim Abu Bakarr Bangura – 50 years

Lieutenant Zainab Amara Suwu – 50 years

Corporal Mohamed Koroma – 75 years

The prosecution, consisting of a team of legal experts, presented 16 witnesses and 47 exhibits to support the charges. The accused were represented by a defense team that attempted to challenge the evidence.

The trial was overseen by a panel of military and legal officials, with Judge Advocate Mark Ngegba presiding.

In a related case, the Court Martial is set to review evidence against another group of soldiers on February 13, 2025, in connection with a violent coup attempt that resulted in multiple casualties.

This case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the government's stance on national security and the consequences of subversion.