In a gripping courtroom drama, the trial of twenty-seven military officers accused of mutiny took an unexpected turn as journalists and the public were recused from the proceedings. This extraordinary move was prompted by the second witness, Captain Sheku Tunkara, whose testimony was deemed to have significant implications for national security.

The courtroom atmosphere intensified when State Prosecutor J.A.K. Sesay, after Captain Tunkara took the stand, requested a closed-door session, asserting that the witness's testimony touched upon matters of state security and should be kept confidential. This application was made under section 91(1)(2) of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Sierra Leone Act of 1961.

Surprisingly, the defense counsel representing the accused did not object to the application, leading to Judge Advocate Mark Ngegba instructing journalists and members of the public to leave the courtroom. The court was subsequently closed to everyone except the prosecution and defense counsels.

Earlier in the trial, Judge Advocate Ngegba, alongside a panel headed by President Coniel Jabbati from the Ministry of Defense, revealed that the first accused, RSLAF Staff Sergeant Alhaji Koroma of the 11th Battalion, had pleaded guilty to nine out of twenty counts. These charges included conspiracy to commit treason, mutiny, failure to suppress mutiny, aiding the enemy, communicating with the enemy, stealing public property, and two other charges. The severity of these charges was underscored by the warning that, if found guilty, Staff Sergeant Alhaji Koroma could face life imprisonment.

The defense team, in response to this, expressed that they had no comments on the plea of the first accused. Director of Public Prosecution I. Kanu indicated the prosecution's acceptance of the guilty plea and requested the court to proceed with sentencing.

However, Judge Advocate Ngegba clarified that the first accused did not plead guilty to all the charges, setting the stage for the trial to continue.

Director of Public Prosecution I. Kanu opened the trial, outlining the charges against the twenty-seven accused individuals, which included conspiracy and mutiny. He described the events of November 26, 2023, as a planned disturbance orchestrated by the accused, spanning locations from Kambia and Lungi to Makeni and Freetown. The prosecution alleged the illegal acquisition of arms, collaboration with an herbalist for charms, and the murder of military personnel.

Defense Counsel Ady Macaulay expressed his anger at the events and reminded the panel of their duty to assess evidence objectively, urging them to leave emotions out of the courtroom. He emphasized that the accused were men of honor, integrity, and purpose.

The trial then proceeded with the first prosecution witness, Lieutenant Colonel Bockarie Marrah, who testified to his role as a commanding officer attached to the Armed Forces Personnel Center. He identified the accused individuals and provided records, which were tendered as exhibits.

As the trial unfolds, SierraLoaded remains committed to providing comprehensive coverage. The next court session is scheduled for January 17, 2024.