In the ongoing treason trial, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ibrahim Sesay has vehemently denied any suggestion of a close relationship with Leather Boot, a central figure in the case.

Testifying before the police at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Sesay clarified his stance on his association with key individuals involved in the trial. While acknowledging a past acquaintance with Leather Boot during their shared tenure in the police force and his attachment to former President Ernest Bai Koroma, ASP Sesay emphasized that he had no personal acquaintance with Koita Makalo, the primary accused in the trial. He further distanced himself from any direct association with Makalo, asserting that his knowledge of him was limited to social media platforms.

Principal State Counsel Robin Mason, leading the prosecution on behalf of the state, orchestrated Detective Bockarie Mustapha’s testimony as the tenth prosecution witness. Mustapha, stationed at CID headquarters, recounted the events of December 2, 2023, when he and Detective Inspector Tamba Kasigbama obtained a statement from ASP Ibrahim Sesay, the ninth accused. Mustapha emphasized the adherence to judicial protocols during Sesay’s interview, where the accused denied all allegations and maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.

Sesay narrated how a team of police officers conducted a thorough search of his residence in Makeni, yielding no incriminating evidence. He highlighted receiving directives from Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Samadia to report to Freetown, without providing any explanation for the sudden relocation.

Clarifying his presence at former President Koroma’s residence in Makeni during the incident on November 26, 2023, Sesay outlined his limited interaction with Leather Boot, attributing it to their shared service in the police force. He explicitly denied any communication with either Koita or Leather Boot since 2019.

In response to inquiries from Sesay’s counsel, lawyer Ady Macauley, Detective Mustapha affirmed his role as the recorder during Sesay’s interview and his involvement in the investigation team. However, he clarified his inability to verify the search findings at Sesay’s premises, as he was not part of the search team. Mustapha acknowledged his awareness of the search in Makeni but could not provide specific details regarding the officers involved, as they comprised personnel from both Makeni and Freetown.

Justice Komba Kamanda adjourned the proceedings to the following week for further hearings, allowing both the prosecution and the defense to present additional evidence and arguments.

The testimony of ASP Ibrahim Sesay underscores the intricate relationships and dynamics among the individuals involved in the ongoing treason trial. As legal proceedings continue, the pursuit of justice and truth remains paramount, with each revelation shaping the narrative of the case.